Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
“Why, it's the boat-busters from down under!” called Gray. “Shoots you guys, you gotta
learn to slow down a bit; you are showing up some of us local lads; seriously, I heard some
rumblings today about that!”
“You're joking of course! We're just working normally, not trying to show anyone up,”
said Gavin, amazed.
“This is Hawaii, you guys, and things are pretty laid-back, union rules and all that. But I
heard Hank and John Anderton talking; they are pretty pleased with what you've done so
far. I'm with you. I come from California, and we work at quite a pace there too, or we
don't get paid!” he boomed with laughter.
We went to shower in the staff's ablution block next door and luxuriated in steaming, hot
water, a treat after months of being at sea using a bucket of seawater and “No Tears” hair
shampoo, just about the only soap that will lather in salt water.
We had changed into smart casuals and were preparing to row over to check out La Mari-
ana's when Gavin spotted Liz rowing over in her little dinghy. We could tell it was her even
though she had her back to us; she had a mop of yellow blonde hair and she wore her ever
present backpack like a badge of honor on her back, rowing smartly and expertly through
the reflective water. Zephyr, her little black Scheepertjie dog,was standing up in the bow
looking keenly across at us.
Presently, she pulled up and deftly shipped her oars, smiling impishly up at us, “Thought
I'd drop by on the way to La Mariana's, and say hi, and see your boat. Permission to come
aboard, skipper?”
“Oh, please do Liz; here, let me take your painter. Actually we were just on our way there
too, thought we'd check out the local talent,” I said grinning back. I was thinking that she
was easily the most beautiful girl in the world!
“Can Zephyr come aboard? He's a person too, or so he thinks.” She laughed easily, patting
the gunnel and helping him aboard.
I placed a cushion down for her and offered her a drink, ruffling Zephyr on his head.
“No thanks, I'll wait until I eat. Armchair Steve has offered to buy me dinner.”
“Who is Armchair Steve?” Gavin asked from below, as he poured a glass of wine from a
big bottle, “Sure you won't have one?”
“Oh, he's one of the Lagoonatics. He has that funny dinghy with the armchair-looking seat
that he pedals around. He's a little weird but pretty harmless. May I take a peek down be-
low, Jon?” she said smiling at me, her blue eyes dancing merrily.
