"I've not been misrepresenting myself," Gideon replied, returning his eyes to rest on Chilton as his expression once again neutralized itself. His head tilted again, casually inclining to one side. "And," he continued, in a confident tone. "Can't be held responsible for conclusions someone may form independent of myself. Not a mind reader. Not that I need humor your paranoia any longer, either."

His lips tightened.

"So how much sailing experience do you have?"