Up the broken ladder scrambled the boys, followed by the professor. The decks were a scene of confusion, showing the power of the gale, and also the terror that must have inspired passengers and crew as they were leaving what they believed to be an ill-fated ship. One or two life boats were found with their sides or bows stove in, showing that the waves must, at times, have swept over the vessel.
“She’s entirely deserted,” said Jerry, in a low voice. “Not a soul left aboard. And yet, if they had only known she would keep afloat, how much safer they all would have been here.”
“Well, I guess if we’d been here, and had seen the big waves,” suggested Ned, “we’d have gone in the boats, too. Though with a heavy sea running I’d hate to trust myself in even a big life boat.”
“Suppose we go below,” said Jerry. “We may find some trace of Bob’s uncle and cousin.”
“Will it be safe?” asked the stout lad.
“Safe! Why not?” Ned wanted to know.
“I mean she may suddenly sink while we’re below.”
“Nonsense! This steamer, aside from the wreck of her upper works, and possibly of the engines, is sound and tight,” declared Jerry.
“That’s right,” agreed Ned. “She doesn’t seem to have taken in much water, either. This steamer would be valuable if we could get her to port. There’s the cargo, too. It’s a good find for someone.”