After dinner, a suggestion was made to enjoy coffee on the forecastle to admire the view. Killick, the steward, couldn't outright refuse this idea, but his discontent was evident as he served coffee in small, dented tin mugs rather than porcelain. He knew that the guests could be careless, and his instincts proved correct when the mugs returned in worse condition.

The captain faced a disheartening sight, with the deck marred by coffee stains that trailed across its pristine surface. This incident highlighted the challenges of maintaining order and decorum among the officers, especially when they were relaxed and enjoying themselves.