"Well, he'll get it all right."
"Well, I don't care to think that he may be driven mad shut up in the dark hold with the rats."
This feeling grew on Frank. At last he went to the captain and asked liberty to see Harris.
The request was granted, and, accompanied by two men, Frank descended into the hold.
Down there, amid barrels and casks, they came upon Harris. Frank heard the irons rattle, and then a gaunt-looking, wild-eyed creature rose up before them, shown by the yellow light of the lanterns.
Frank Merriwell had steady nerves, but, despite himself, he started.
The appearance of the fellow had changed in a most remarkable manner. Harris looked as if he was overcome with terror.
"There he is," said one of the men, holding up his lantern so the light fell more plainly on the wretched prisoner.
"Have you come to take me out of here?" cried Harris, in a tone of voice that gave Frank a chill. "For God's sake, take me out of this place! I'll go mad if I stay here much longer! It is full of rats! I could not sleep last night—I dare not close my eyes for a minute! Please—please take me out of here!"
Then he saw and recognized Frank.