The Monster Hunter Read Online Free Page B

and getting a young boy to England was a departure from the crates of tea he was more used to shipping across the waves. Ben had liked the idea of being supercargo – or, to the untrained ear, a passenger on a goods ship - but he was more than happy to work his passage if it got him to England.
    The shadow sat back and almost disappeared among the deeper shadow of the high-backed chair. ‘Well, I suppose that’s more of an advantage than a drawback,’ was the response from the shadow. The pause seemed infinite as considerations were made. ‘Right, young man, tomorrow at noon, when the tide is full you will be sailing on board the Hallowe’en under the command of Captain Dante. He will expect you on board at first light I’ve no doubt, and you are scheduled to arrive in Devon in six months’ time, weather permitting, in the port of Salcombe. From there you will need to make your own way to Kent. The moment in port and disembarked you will no longer be the responsibility of the First Tea Company but you will receive a wage for your time on board and you can use this to get yourself to your destination.’ The disembodied voice stopped talking and the triangle-faced man leant forward into the light. There was the sound of a pen scratching and then an envelope was pushed across the table with the name ‘Captain William Dante’ scrawled on the front.
    â€˜Now, I’m a busy man, so I can’t afford to spend any moretime on you. Run along.’ The pen tapped the envelope, prompting Ben to reach forward and take it before standing and pulling his kit bag on to his shoulder. With a polite smile and a quiet ‘Thank you, Sir,’ he left the office.
    The triangle-faced man stood up and went to the window, cleaning his glasses as he went. He placed them back on his nose and waited patiently until the boy appeared out on the street a helpful gateman in tow pointing directions to where the Hallowe’en lay at anchor. The triangle-faced man sighed. He had seen so many youngsters board the tea clippers over the last couple of years and he always wondered whether any ever made it to their destinations. Soon the boy was lost in the crowd and with thoughts of a job well done the triangle-faced man went back to his desk and, picking up a small bell, rang for his afternoon tea.

    It would be a while before the sun set and a cold night before the sun rose again, but young Ben was determined to find the ship on which he was to sail. As he followed the directions given by the gatemen, he pushed through the crowds until before him stood the Hallowe’en . The ship was magnificent in the young boy’s eyes. It sat low in the water as its hold was already rich with cargo; its three masts stood straight and proud, canvas sails folded neatly, for tomorrow on the high tide she would sail. Ben felt the thrill of romantic adventure at being a part of the crew of a tea clipper and he smiled happily, rocking on his heels, as thoughts of Sinbad began dancing through his head.
    â€˜Are you looking for me?’ shouted a gruff voice.
    Ben turned to be faced by a man limping towards him. Hewas possibly in his sixties and his beard was grey and tightly cropped, his face was weathered and wrinkled, and one eye was closed as if squinting.
    â€˜It’s just that you’re staring at my boat and, unless you’re planning on buying it – which I doubt – you’re looking for me.’
    â€˜I’m early, Sir,’ said Ben, finding his voice after so many long months of silence.
    â€˜Early for what, boy, or is that your name? I knew an Early once … He was a rum cove and I didn’t rightly trust him.’ The Captain became thoughtful and his words drifted off.
    â€˜No, Sir, my name is Ben. I’m your new galley boy but I’m not due until tomorrow,’ said Ben happily, handing the envelope over.
    The Captain was snapped from his thoughts and focused his