If he and Chambers really are pulling each other off in the alcoves, the boy's lucky. A much worse crime if they're discovered— on some other ship, anyway. So long as manners and dignity are maintained, here on this expedition, the gaze of authority politely shifts.

(He and Jamie would immediately expire from hypocrisy, anyhow.)

"Aye, God on the ship, the French say," in a tone that suggests he very much can overstep, but of course they both know that. It's a matter of a commanding officer being called up for it, something that Crozier would not be, actually, but is offering.

"I'll sit just there, then, thank you."

His arse can be warm while they proceed. Unless, of course, Jopson finds his voice.