"I was afraid first they were going to throw us overboard," said Sam.
"I think Sack Todd is equal to it, and that Gasper Pold is about as bad."
The four youths talked the situation over for a good hour, but could reach no satisfactory conclusion. They did not wish to submit to the others and yet they realized that they were "in a box" as Tom said.
"I know one thing—I want a drink of water," said Sam. "I am as dry as a salt fish."
"Yah, I vont me a trink, too," added Hans.
"Well, you'll have to go without," answered Tom. "I am dry myself. I was going to get some fresh water just before the trouble began, but I didn't have the chance."
"I know what they'll do—they'll starve us out," exclaimed Sam. "I see their game plainly."
"I am going to whistle for water," said Tom, with something of his usual grin. "Nothing like being stylish."
He pulled the cord and the whistle gave a loud toot. He repeated this several times, when they heard footsteps and the hatch was raised about a foot.
"Ready to submit?" asked Sack Todd, peering down on them.
"We want some drinking water," answered Tom.