`` so i am afraid i can offer you not much hope of escape , '' laurence told hammond on shore , supervising the packing of his sea-chest : gerry was not particularly handy , and laurence was having to refold every item before it entered the flimsy wooden crate which should have to serve him for the purpose , `` unless you should persuade some other person to inveigle her away from you ; i may assure you that given your blessing there are several officers among our company who would gladly take your place in her affections . ''