The boy now went below to find the man, and the girls started with Carnegie for the main saloon. After a few steps the latter looked back over his shoulder, and saw Allyne gazing somewhat moodily after them.
"Aren't you coming?" he asked pleasantly, turning back.
"Am I wanted?" was returned quickly.
"Of course, if you like to go," laughed the young officer, and Allyne strode forward.
Their loitering had widened the space between them and the girls, and suddenly Tom Allyne began, in a low voice,
"Carnegie, I haven't had an opportunity before, so now I make haste to say that I thank you for showing me that a fellow need not be of the namby-pamby kind because he lets the stuff alone. I used to think that boys with any spirit must drink and carouse, occasionally, but I've learned better now. I watched you last night."
The other turned with a rapid movement.
"Watched me?"
"Yes, you were cool and brave. When the captain needed volunteers you worked like a Trojan, and never flinched. And I believe you knew the special danger too, as well as——"
"Sh-h!" Carnegie glanced about with an alarmed air. "Did you know too?"