Sandpiper

Disclaimer: This story is fiction. It deals with interaction between males including oral and anal. Any person under 18, or anyone living in a state or province where reading these stories is illegal should leave this site now. Adult gay content.

Chapter 42

The next few days were pretty laid back on Sandpiper. Everyone spent time in Dar es Salaam, shopping, swimming in the ocean on one of the many beaches or just laying about the yacht. Brent proved to be pretty damn good Chef in his own right. Some of the dinners were real good. With what Andy had learned from Singh and Rami, plus Brent and his own knowledge, you never knew from one day to the next what would come out of the galley.

I got a lot of work done catching up on all my far flung holdings. I also got a few emails from Time and other publications interested in my story. I declined all, after being burned once by Mamoo.

It didn't take Sal long to get out of his gloomy mood over Mamoo. My boys are excellent medicine, both in bed and out. I also checked on flights to England from Dar es Salaam. Air Tanzania had one direct flight a week to Heathrow in London. If the blood test came back negative and if I could get the Visa's quick enough I might get them on the next flight out in 6 days. I made a tentative booking First Class Dar es Salaam to London. They told me to guarantee seating I would have to confirm my booking three days before the flight. That might be cutting it close but I told them I would.

Jake and the balance of the crew got back the same day the tests were due. I picked up the family and took them to the clinic. Lucky for me and them all were negative. Telling the resident Doctor I was flying them to England, he suggested they get their immunization shots. That would save them the trouble of having to get them in England. That done I took them to the British Consulate. Harry had done his job very well. In short order they all had entry Visa's for Britain. After returning them to the hotel, I confirmed the flight to London and paid for it in total. I then phoned Harry and left a message with their schedule.

Now all I had to do was get them to the airport on time and make sure they had everything. Only one thing left to do. I went to the American Express office and purchased a 15,000 Euro International Bank Draft. I put in an envelope and gave it to Serene, telling her it was to help with the baby and the boys. She gave me a very loving kiss. She was going to have to careful in England, I knew she didn't wear a bra under her new blouse. Every man within miles would be after her in England. I didn't tell her that.

Two days later I took them all to the airport and after a very teary farewell watched as the 747 lifted off. Brent cried into my shoulder as the plane took off.

Jake blew his stack after he read the Story in Time. I was right Mamoo might have ended up at the bottom of the bay if Jake had been here before he left.

We started preparations to head north to Kenya. Restocking our food alone took a whole day. Not to mention our beer stocks. It was our policy where possible to buy local beer and wine. The Scotch on the other hand sometimes had to be either brought in special order or have to do with a lesser brand than I liked. Harry had started me on scotch and now I really loved it.

After looking at Kenya on line, I told Jake to head for Mombasa. No rush, just our usual travel by day and stop each night.

Almost exactly 30 days after arriving in Dar es Salaam we pulled out. There was no doubt in any ones mind, it was one of the best stops we had ever made aboard Sandpiper.

The trip north was slow and easy. Only three days and we came to Mombasa. As we entered into the port we were met by a customs boat. After checking every ones passport and a short inspection were directed to one of the many marinas that dotted the Island and mainland. As we motored to the Marina we passed a military dock that had a very sleek looking warship tied up. I put my glasses on her and saw a Canadian Flag at her stern.

"She's the HMCS Montreal." Jake said.

"A very good looking warship."

"Fast too, 29 knots plus. Well armed for her size. I think she is part of the Piracy Task force. Probably here on a break from patrols."

"Think we could tour her?"

"Well Commodore. I imagine they would welcome you aboard." Jake laughed.

"Cut the Commodore crap Jake."

"Aye, aye Sir." He laughed again.

He picked up the navy ship to ship phone and called her. He talked for a bit and hung up.

"They will leave a pass at the gate for you Ed. Their leaving in three days so you should make it your first stop here. I didn't mention who you were just said the owner of Sandpiper would like to tour the ship if possible."

"Thanks Jake."

We found the marina easy enough. It was very close to down town. Made it very nice. I could and did unload my Jeep. We agreed on a watch list and then I took my boys ashore. First stop was the navy yard. HMCS Montreal had indeed left us a pass. We were allowed to drive right onto the wharf where she was tied up. Up close she really was a good looking ship. Very easy to tell she was fast as well. We were met at the gangplank and escorted to the bridge. As with the US Warships, my boys could take pictures anywhere outside, but no pictures were allowed anywhere inside the ship. The young Commander commanding the ship was very helpful. After a real tour, He asked us where we were headed.

"North past Somalia next and then probably Djibouti."

"Well stay well off the coast if you can. Most of the pirates work close to shore, but we have heard they also have some larger boats, we call mother ships. I have already heard about Sandpiper from my Admiral. You should be able to outrun anything they have."

"To true Sir. Thank you for a very nice tour. Good luck on your patrol Commander."

"Thank you and good luck and god speed."

He showed us off his ship and we headed back to Sandpiper. It took almost three hours for the tour. We were all hot and thirsty by the time we got back aboard Sandpiper. A cool shower and a cold beer soon fixed us up.

Using Sandpiper as our home base we spent 7 wonder filled days in Mombasa. Everyone really enjoyed the City and attractions. Jake found out that further up the coast we could scuba dive in one of the marine preserves on the coast. That would be our next destination.

As we slowly motored past the navy dock, we saw another ship tied up. Jake put his glasses on her.

"Italian, ITS Zeffiro. A frigate. They must use Mombasa as a liberty port."

"She looks capable. Nice lines."

"I would imagine. Italy builds some very good ships now."

After getting out of port we were soon back on foils heading north. IT was almost on the border that the Marine Preserve was located. We would be well inside Kenyan Waters so I wasn't worried.

Inside a small bay, protected by long sandbars we anchored off a small dock. Taking a Zodiac in we paid the small fee and were allowed to dive anywhere in the bay. No spear fishing was allowed. There was one other sailing Yacht anchored as well. The boys were real happy to break out the scuba gear. Although we actually had enough for almost the whole crew to dive, Several crew elected to stay on board. That was good as we needed a safety crew on board. One thing we lacked that I vowed to buy at the earliest opportunity was and underwater digital camera. I think we could have taken a thousand pictures of the very exotic fish and marine life we saw. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed our three days in the bay.

As we left Jake took the advise of the Canadian Commander and headed straight out into the Indian Ocean. We went about 30 miles offshore, well outside Somalia territory waters. Turning north we set our speed at 55 knots. A very easy speed for Sandpiper to maintain almost indefinitely. With our present fuel we could have made it almost to the Suez Canal. As the sun slowly set there was nothing on radar within our range. Jake said it would most probably be a quick and boring run to the northern border of Somalia.

The next day was the same, clear skies and a hot Sun. The boys were quick to strip nude and again it became hard to concentrate. Too many nice brown buns and swinging cocks. Jake just took in stride. After a very late second night I was just crawling into bed when Sandpiper heeled and the buzzer of the high speed alarm went off. I was thrown into bed with my boys.

"What the fuck now." I said out loud.

Getting back out of bed and dressed, I almost ran to the bridge.

"What's going on Aaron?"

"Exxon Superior sent out a distress call. She has four or five small boats pacing her. She's about 250 miles north and east of us."

Before I could say anything Jake came up and Aaron repeated to him what he had heard and done.

"Good Lad Aaron. Pirates won't attack in the dark."

Exxon Superior was one of the real huge super tankers. Too big for the Suez, she had to make the trip around the horn of Africa.

"Well at 250 miles that puts her about 2 and half hours away. Sunup is in three and half. We should just make it in time." Jake said.

"Increase to 100 knots Aaron."

We better keep an eye on the radar too. Don't want to run down a fishing boat at this speed." I said.

"Scope is clear." I heard Siam say behind me.

"Well so much for sleeping. Can some one make a big pot of coffee."

"Andy is already in the Galley Ed." Siam said. "Thanks love. I suppose everyone is up."

Jake dialed in the marine frequency on the radio.

"Exxon Superior, Exxon Superior, this Sandpiper."

"Sandpiper go ahead."

"What's your situation?"

Sandpiper we have four small craft keeping pace with us. I believe they will try to take the ship at dawn. Montreal is enroute, but will not be here before 0700. What's your ETA Sandpiper?"

"WE make it 0300 hours."

"I don't know how you can help, but I guess maybe your better than nothing."

"You might be surprised Exxon Superior. We have a few tricks we can try."

"He said Montreal was enroute. At 30 knots that puts her about 120 miles away from Exxon Superior. I wonder where she is."

He was about to pick up the navy phone when Montreal called.

"Sandpiper, speed and position."

Jake picked up the phone.

"Speed 100 knots position, ####### ######."

"Roger Sandpiper. That puts you about 100 miles astern of us. Our present speed 35 knots course 025. We won't make it before dawn. Be advised rules of engagement require fire in self defense only." "Roger Montreal. Copy that."

Sandpiper sped on into the night. Almost total silence on the bridge. Andy brought up coffee, laced with scotch. Damn it tasted good.

"We'll go to battle stations as soon as we have Exxon Superior on our scope." Jake said.

"Well we can't fire on the fuckers unless they fire first, so what do you plan?"

"Well we can use Star shells. That will make them think a warship is close by and you remember what I did on the river at that blockade?"

"Yeah you came off foils at 90 knots. We do that out here on the ocean we could bury Sandpiper under one of these monster rollers."

"Well I know she might go under by the bow, but she recovered okay in that typhoon near New Zealand. We will definitely have to be on the enclosed bridge."

"Well you're my captain and I trust you Jake."

"Thanks Ed."

"Contact. Extreme range." Siam said.

"That will be Montreal."

Our radar range, even on foils was only about fifty miles.

Montreal was obviously already painting us on her radar.

"That's some kind of Yacht you have there Sandpiper. We have you at just a hair over 100 knots at 48 miles." "Roger Montreal."

I looked forward with the glasses, but Montreal was still below the horizon. Aaron got up made notes in the log book. A few minutes later Randy relieved him on the helm. Randy had already been on the bridge, but had waited to take over.

"Course 025, speed 100. Aaron said to Randy.

"Thanks Aaron. I have her now."

So how are you and Simon getting on Aaron?" I asked.

"Great Ed. God I love him so much."

"Glad to hear it Love."

We watched as Montreal came into view. Lit up with all her lights on she looked really great. Her 2500 tons really plowed through the big rollers. Each time she buried her bow in a wave the bow wave was almost higher than her bridge. I wished I could see her doing that in daylight. It would make a fantastic picture.

"Moving kind of slow big Brother." Jake said into ship to ship phone.

"Well you might out run us, but we can out gun you little sister."

"Too true Montreal."

So what do you plan on doing with out getting into hot water Sandpiper?"

"WE have a couple of tricks. You think star shells might help?"

"Its been tried before and had some effect. Keeps them guessing. The Gettysburg used her high speed to keep a small group of pirates at bay for almost an hour. They might just fire on you if you try that."

"That would be a very bad mistake on their part. We are not unarmed."

By this time we were well past Montreal and moving farther away all the time. Soon she was slipping over the horizon behind us.

"Lets move to the enclosed bridge Ed." The first hints of dawn were showing and we were still a good 90 miles away.

As soon as we on the enclosed bridge.

"Max us out Randy."

Randy pushed the throttle to the stops. Sandpiper just picked up speed quickly. Forty long minutes passed.

"Contact" Siam said.

"Battle stations. All hands man your battle station."

I slipped a mike and ear phones on.

"Two more contacts close aboard the larger one." Siam said.

"Bring us around and match Exxon's course opposite tack."

Sandpiper heeled like an airplane as Randy moved Sandpiper into a collision course with huge tanker.

"So much for the screens Ed. I think they will get ripped off if we go under."

"All hands brace for coming off foils at high speed."

I strapped myself into one of the bridge chairs. Jake and Randy did the same. Siam on the radar gripped the handles by the screen.

"We'll leave the gun down until we come off foils and get through the first wave. We can stay off foils then and maneuver to block the attacking boats.

"Exxon Superior we coming straight in at your bow. We will try not to scrape any paint off."

"Roger, Jesus are you moving."

"Where are the boats Radar." Jake said.

"Two to port about 200 yards off. Two to starboard about 800 yards."

Fuck are they going to be surprised." Jake chuckled.

"Two boats fine on the port bow." I heard in my ear phones.

"Standby." Jake said.

There was enough light now to see both the boats and the super tanker. Jesus it didn't look like there was room to go between, but Randy held the Sandpiper dead on to run between the two boats and the side of the tanker.

I watched fascinated as Jake hit the retraction control. Sandpiper came down off foils so quick it was astounding. I watched the bow bury itself in a roller. The bow disappeared and water slammed against the bridge. I was even more surprised as Sandpiper hurdled out of the wave. Water sloshed off the deck. Some of the screens were gone and some of the deck furniture too. "Those two boats have disappeared." I heard in my earphones.

"Hard a starboard." I heard Jake yell.

We had passed down the full length of the tanker in almost a heart beat. Sandpiper heeled hard over as she swung to Starboard. The faint whine of hydraulics told me our gun was coming up. Sandpiper was still traveling nearly 45 knots and pushed a huge bow wave. Jake told Randy to steer directly at the two boats now visible. One immediately turned away, while the other turned toward the tanker.

"Keep the one heading for the tanker to port Randy."

I watched as the tankers side loomed toward us. I was sure they would win the race. I was about to yell to Jake when he figured it out too.

"Pass him close astern. All 60's stand by."

The pressure of the water between Sandpiper the tanker, along with the bow wave from Sandpiper swamped the pirates boat. The pressure pushed Sandpiper away from the looming side of the tanker. As Sandpiper pulled away, Jake lowered the foils. God it had happened so fast. One minute we were coming off foils in the next couple of minutes we had swung around the tankers stern and swamped the attacking boat.

"Okay guys lets look for survivors."

Jake swung Sandpiper across the bows of the tanker and slowed as we looked for survivors of the two boats we had swamped.

"Men in the water, 100 yards ahead." I heard in my ear phone.

Jake slowed almost to a stop. "Drop a lift raft." He ordered.

When the men in the water started to swim for the raft, Jake headed for the half sunk boat from the other side of the tanker. He dropped them a raft too. After the men scrambled aboard we took a line and towed it to the other raft. Then just moved off to wait for Montreal. We kept them covered with our 60's as we waited wallowing in the rollers.

"Thank you Sandpiper." Exxon Superior radioed.

"No problem Big boy. We will wait for Montreal."

"WE got a fantastic picture of you coming off foils. Send an address I'll send you a copy."

Jake gave them our email address. Andy came up with a glass of scotch for everyone. Pretty early but no one complained.

"Damn good Job Jake."

Thanks Ed. Sorry about the screens and furniture."

We saw Montreal coming on at 35 knots. I heard several cameras clicking. God she looked great. I idly wondered if the new yacht I was planning on would look like she did on the hull plowing into the seas at 35 knots. Might be a sight to see too.

As she came up she slowed and two high speed boats were lowered. They took the rafts in tow back to Montreal.

"Thank you Sandpiper." The Commander said.

"Your very welcome Montreal."

We told them about the fourth boat and as soon as they had the rafts on board she turned in pursuit.

I knew the policy they were using on the pirate patrol. If they found the mother ship, they would photograph and finger print the crew and confiscate all weapons and send them on their way. Then if they were caught again they would prosecuted in world court for piracy. As Montreal turned away, Jake reset the auto pilot and we again headed north.

Now almost 150 miles from the coast we could aim for Djibouti.

Jake figured a couple of days at least.

I pondered weather to actually stop in Djibouti. There really was nothing to see that we had not already seen in Kenya or Tanzania. We would have to refuel, but not stop to sight see. But where to after that. I figured it was time to ask the crew. I headed down to the bow to see exactly how much damage there was. I was surprised that we had lost only four of the screens. The two right at the bow and the two closest to the bridge. We had also lost only one of the deck couches. The one that sat across the bow was gone, torn right out of the deck. All the leather pads and pillows were long gone. Brent and Momo were replacing one of the forward screens.

"We took from the stern Ed. We also have some spare pads for the couches."

"Good show guys."

After things settled down I called a meeting to decide on our next destination. I explained about Djibouti and told them we would refuel there, but where to after that was up to them. They pretty unanimous in there agreement to head east. Looking at a large scale map of Asia, the guys traced where they figured we should head now. India first, then south to the Maldives, Sri Lanka, West coast of Indonesia, Timor and then Australia. Quite a trip.

"Sounds good. Any problems you see Jake?"

"Only problem might be Indonesia. There has been a lot of unrest there lately."

"Okay we can check that out before we decide for sure. But until we get to that point, there's a lot of miles to travel."

After some more discussion we all headed back to clearing up the mess Jake made when he came off foils. The galley suffered considerable crockery damage. The boys just went after it in a happy mood. All I could do was sit back and watch. I moved out onto the stern and sat down. Someone always made sure I had a fresh beer. Damn I loved these boys, every single one of them. No arguments, no cussing, just getting Sandpiper back into pristine condition.

Three days later we refueled in Djibouti. Soon after we were back at sea heading due East. The first day was smooth seas, but that was about to change. Our weather angel deserted us on the second day. Dawn the second day brought high winds and towering seas. Off foils Sandpiper road it like a champ, but for the crew it was very rough ride. You couldn't stand and moving was a real bitch, having to grab every handhold you could find. On the bridge was not much better as Sandpiper seemed to corkscrew through the waves, shipping water at almost a continuing battle with the waves and wind. Strapped into a bridge chair was even tough as you were wrenched from side to side.

The worst part was the wind was out of the South west, while the waves seemed to be out of the east.

"Any suggestions Jake." I said the second day of this storm.

"Well we could head north east and into the Hormuz Strait. Maybe hole up in Abu Dubai."

"What about Iran? Will we have problems with them?"

"As long as we stay close to Oman, we should be okay. There's a lot of shipping through the Straight, so we will have lots of company."

"How long?"

"Couple of days anyway Ed, but we can always stick around until this depression moves off, make it real holiday. Abu Dubai is supposed to be real nice."

"Make it so Captain."

Would have to watch some of the things that Sandpiper was known for. No booze and I figured homosexuality was taboo in the Islamic Nation.

We ran out of the foul weather as we neared the coast of Oman. We aimed directly at the Straight. Jake was right about one thing. There was a very large amount of shipping both ways. This was the only route from the oil fields of all the nations of the Persian Gulf. There was also almost always a warship of one country or another in sight. Jake kept our speed down to about 35 knots as we cruised through the Straight. I was also surprised to see several sailboats and other pleasure yachts.

Abu Dubai was the Capital of the United Arab Emirates. It was one of the richest states in the world and also one of the most beautiful. We could see the skyline of the city long before we got to it. A vast number high rise buildings covered the skyline. After a very cursory customs inspection, we were directed into a huge marina. There had to be space for up to two hundred yachts. Some of the ones now there were twice as large as Sandpiper. The quays were wide enough for trucks and vehicles to use. We were directed to tie up at one. Almost as soon as we tied up one of the officials of the marina came on board.

"Welcome to Abu Dubai. I'm Edward Cranks, manager of the Marina. Just so you know before hand, I have already been appraised of Sandpiper's capabilities and her not so visible assets. Also I know you have an all male crew that is, shall we say of a different lifestyle than most. Been Gay is not against the law, but practicing that particular lifestyle is not tolerated within Abu Dubai. Be very careful while visiting. Carry your passports at all times. The Marina is under constant protection by the Police. Abu Dubai likes to ensure that all visitors have no problems while they are here. If you choose, you need not leave anyone on board. As for money, any countries money is accepted here at a fair exchange rate. Enjoy your stay."

"Thank you and we will be careful."

He turned and left the yacht.

I appraised the crew of what he said, ad monishing them to very careful. No holding hands guys and no kissing, as much as you would like too. We'll use Sandpiper as our quarters here, I've heard the hotel prices are astronomical. Dress appropriately."

I was thinking about unloading my Jeep, but decided not to. Abu Dubai had one of the best public transportation systems in the world. Or we could use taxis.

Making sure everyone had funds drawn from their account on board, I let them loose on a very unsuspecting Abu Dubai.

Most of the crew elected to start with one of the guided tours of the city. I already knew what I wanted to see. The most expensive hotel in the world would be my first stop. I had other ideas to spring on my boys, but I would hold out to tell them.

Shorts with underwear was the primary dress, Most also wore their Sandpiper t-shirts too. Underwear to hide their almost constant erections and also just to be safe. We looked like quite the crew as we sauntered down the dock from Sandpiper. Jake and his three were also going someplace different. I grabbed one of the bigger vans that sat at the Entrance to the Marina. I gave the driver instructions and we were off. The boys were awed by the huge high-rises and many parks. For a desert kingdom is was really green. As we approached the Tallest building in the world the boys were dumb struck and speechless. It looked like a huge Sail. Rising gracefully to almost 400 meters. I think the boys took a hundred pictures and many more when we went to the observation room on the top floor. You could see almost a hundred miles. After a very good and delicious meal in one of the restaurants, washed down by good ale, we headed for my surprise. Abu Dubai had the only indoor snow skiing park in the world. They quite honestly never figured out what was up until we got fitted with ski boots and heavy coats. It was very inexpensive too, at $100.00 each for as long as we wished. The boys had more fun than I think I have ever seen them. We even ended up having a brief but fun snow ball fight.

Tired after that we just strolled the big city center shopping complex. I spotted a huge camera shop and figured it might have what I wanted in underwater digital cameras. I told the boys to buy what ever they wanted and headed into the camera shop. The clerk showed me a very wide selection of underwater cameras. After explaining I did not plan any deep sea diving, that left about 30 to choose from. I picked three, two still cameras and one video camera. All three were very easy to learn to use and took very good pictures. $7500.00 US dollars later I was the proud owner of the cameras. My American Express card worked wonders.

My sons and lovers had been busy too. All were loaded down with their purchases. We figured we should probably head back to Sandpiper to unload before we carried on. I still had not bought anything for my boys, something I tried to do at every stop we made on Sandpiper. I also figured we would probably do more shopping. I figured on at least ten days or two weeks here.

Back on Sandpiper the boys wanted to model some of the clothes they bought. Apparently they had all shopped for the same things. All bought designer jeans, but to my mind at least two sizes too small. Without underwear they looked fit to rape. They also bought almost sheer Speedos. The material was metallic and as they moved the colors changed. Very tight every single curve could be seen. They almost looked better in them than when they walked around nude. They had even purchased a pair in my size and insisted I try them. To be honest they felt real good and I loved them.

WE decided to stay on board for the balance of the day. Having Sandpiper to ourselves was great. That of course led to sex almost anywhere. Sitting on the floor of the lounge nude with all my sons and lovers around me was really nice. One always close, so I could just kiss or fondle as I chose was a great way to spend the afternoon.

Just by sheer chance, Gary stood to go to the head.

"Hey love, I think we got company coming."

I stood to look. Three police vehicles were coming down the dock, all with their red and blue lights flashing.

"Shit. Now What? Quick boys, shorts and t-shirts."

I wondered which of my crew had screwed up this time. Well I would soon find out, they drove up beside Sandpiper and stopped. It soon became apparent who might be in trouble when Aaron and Sal climbed out of the back seat of the middle vehicle. They were followed by a man in flowing white robes. They all headed for the gangplank.

I walked out and met them as they came on board.

"What have you two brats been up now?"

"Dad, we didn't do anything. We were on tour of the palace when Ali asked us if he could speak to us. He said he had recognized our t-shirts and asked if he could have a look over Sandpiper. We said we would have to ask you. So he said he would drive us back."

"Mr. Somers, I'm Ali Bin Saud, Director of Public Safety." He put his hand forward.

He had a firm grip and when I looked at his face, I saw a man about thirty five, with twinkling eyes, a small goatee and mustache. I also saw behind those eyes a very intelligent brain.

"May I come aboard, Mr. Somers?"

"Of course your Majesty."

"No, no, just Ali." He said.

I showed him into the lounge. All my boys were dressed, thank god.

"You have a very beautiful and capable Yacht Ed, if I may be less formal."

"Thank you Ali. She's my pride and joy."

"As well I know are these very nice young men."

"Well I would offer you a drink but."

"Actually I will accept a glass of that fine old Scotch you drink."

When I looked astounded, he laughed.

"Ed, it is all in how the words of the Book are interpreted. Some interpret the Book for their own ends while others read it differently."

Gary poured two glasses and handed one to the Prince, the other to me. He sat down and then looked around.

"I think Ed, we have several friends and acquaintances in common."

"Really?"

"Yes, we are, as to say Abu Dubai is purchasing several high speed patrol craft from Vosper. I have had many wonderful conversations with the Director of Vosper-Thorneycroft. Also I think your Secretary of State and the Commissioner for Public Safety in Thailand."

"I see." I said.

"I don't suppose you have someplace more private we can talk?"

"Well I trust all these boys explicitly."

"It is not them I am worried about Ed."

I showed Ali up to my office behind the bridge. The air conditioning was on so it was comfortable. I splashed some more scotch into his glass and mine and offered him a comfortable chair. I sat down opposite him with the bottle between us.

"Much better Ed."

I just sat and waited. When he wanted to tell me what he wanted to say, he would. He swirled the scotch in his glass and took a sip.

"Excellent, very good Scotch. I must remember to order some the next time I am in England."

"Ed, I did not mention some of the others we both know. Let us say that some of those might be considered enemies of my Country and are better not spoken aloud. I presume anything I say will be held in strictest confidence?"

"Of course Ali."

"Good. Now I said I was not worried about your crew. You may or may not know that whenever you dock in some port, your Sandpiper is always noted by someone. Sandpiper and her capabilities are pretty common knowledge almost every where in the world, where it matters. Even now I know of at least two yachts here that are watching your yacht. They mean you no harm, but both are from countries which might be considered belligerents to your country or mine."

"Last year in early May you transported four young men from the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean. I know from which country they came from and am pretty sure I know where they were dropped. However neither bothers me. That particular country has done much to stop things from happening in the Persian Gulf. For that we are grateful, although of course we can't openly acknowledge their actions."

"My biggest problem here are that some elements of the population of the this country and others support terrorist activities. Some of the plastic explosives that were diverted in China ended up here. We have hopefully recovered all that entered my Country."

"You and Sandpiper were instrumental in stopping that trade and I know the cost you bear. For that I am truly sorry Sir. I know they are both in God's hands now."

"Thank you Ali."

He poured more scotch into his glass and mine and sat back. I knew he wasn't finished speaking and wondered what exactly he wanted of me and Sandpiper.

"As a Father, I am in irons, as the English would say, for asking this of you. My oldest son Muhammad is as you are. That is to say, he is Gay. I am not sure he knows I know, but I have known now for several years. He's almost twenty and has told me he will not stay in this country as long as we keep persecuting people who don't follow the letter of the teachings. I know what he is referring too. Some of our laws could be considered draconian. Especially when dealing with homosexuality. Would you consider accepting him as part of your crew?"

Now that was not what I had been expecting. Almost twenty, that meant Ali was much older than he looked. What do I tell him?

"Does he want to become part of my crew?"

"To be honest, I am not sure he knows of Sandpiper or even about Sandpiper. I was hoping that you might ask him. Ed I have seen already in the eyes of those young men how they feel about you and how you feel about them. As a Family you have everything a Father could ever hope for. If I was like you, I could only hope I had boys who love me as they love you."

"Ali, I can't in all honesty give you an answer. Each of my crew as you say love me. That's all my crew and I love them the same. IT would not really be up to me if he joined our crew. It would be up to my crew. Unless he fits in and in some way endears himself to my boys and young men, he might not be compatible enough."

"I know what you are saying Ed. Would you consider talking to him?"

"By all means, bit I can't make promises."

"Of course. Now another matter. Would you consider talking me and my son out for a day on Sandpiper. I would very much like to see her at speed."

"That is easily arranged Ali. I will need to wait for some of my other crew. My Captain and the engine room hands are ashore. Do you have a day in mind?"

"How does Thursday sound? Two days from now."

"That would be fine Ali. I'll talk to Jake when he's back aboard this evening."

"Thank you." He finished his scotch and stood up.

I escorted him down to the gangplank and shook his hand before he left.

"See you Thursday Ed and Thank you again."

Wow! What a visit?

TBC