"I wouldn't dream of it," he promises. "Not even to suggest that she might use the time to have a nice cup of tea and take a day for herself."

Marta is far too like his good old Nurse for him to even suggest hurting her feelings in such a way.

"I must say, though, that I'm very much looking forward to the tour of the ship."

Just a bit.

He may have been poring over the plans with Perry whenever the chance arises.