From a distance came a murmur of voices and from overhead the steady tramping of feet.
"Remain here for me," he said to Andy, who was on the deck. "Be prepared to let the Holland XI. down the instant I come on board again."
Then the young captain passed into the Corcoran and out of sight of his companions.
CHAPTER XVII.
PLAYING THE SPY.
Captain Oscar Pelham knew only too well that he carried his life in his hands.
He was in the heart of the enemy's domain, and they would not hesitate to kill him on sight.
He must be cautions, for the ship was a strange one to him and it would be easy to make a false move and thus expose himself.
In one hand he carried a long knife and in his belt rested a brace of pistols.
He walked silently to the end of the stateroom he had entered, and through a half-open door saw a narrow passageway leading into a large and well-furnished cabin.