‘ don’t use that tone with me. ’ // Arthur from Sir John
“Which tone, John?” Arthur pointedly punctuated the scandalous use of Sir John’s first name. Arthur stood up to his full height, shoulders squared and sharp green eyes keenly fixed on those of the other man.
“The one where I speak to you as an equal because I am a Lord, and a knight, and the Empire we’re here for in the first place? Or would you prefer it if I deferred against my better judgment and lied to you? I will not be made a dishonest sailor for your vanity, Sir, and it is not only out of respect for you but for the brave men on this expedition that I am using this tone.”
Arthur suddenly remembered the position in which he had just put himself; the greater situation at hand had overridden his senses, so worried was he for the ships and the men who, unlike himself, would not ever wake again if they were to die.
“So,” he continued, lowering his voice, tempering himself again, “if you must give me the lash or discipline me for speaking out of turn, then I will honorably accept the punishment. As long as you swear to think on what I have said. I perhaps did let my anger and fear get the best of me, but I swear,” Arthur shook his head, quite suddenly looking almost pained, “it is only out of the greatest love for you, the officers and the men. What sort of weight do you think I carry, knowing all of this is in my name?”