“Yes,” she said, gently. “I am better now, and I could not bear to stay here if he is in danger.”
Feeling that it would only cause an extra strain on nerves already weakened, Bessy made no further opposition, but accompanied Hester on deck, where a bustle of preparation was going on, the captain and doctor both working in subordination to Dutch and Mr Parkley. The air-pump was being fixed in a convenient spot, diving suits were in readiness for use, and tubes coiled in great snake-like rings. With an oily rag in his hand, and his cheeks blown out with importance, Rasp was fussing about and giving a touch here and a touch there; while no less important, and evidently feeling as if his task were done, Oakum sat on a coil of rope, chewing his tobacco, and looking on.
But to Hester’s great relief the diving apparatus was not yet going to be put in use. For Dutch, Mr Parkley, and the doctor were busy at work with sundry jars, wires, and plates. In fact, they were placing a galvanic battery ready for action, and making some mysterious preparations that the sailors did not understand.
There was a small white canister, too, over which the doctor kept guard, ordering back any of the sailors that approached.
At last, when the battery was ready, and emitting a low, hissing noise from the zinc and platina plates immersed in a solution, a long coil of thin wire was unwound and attached to the little white canister.
“For heaven’s sake be careful, Dutch!” said Mr Parkley, who had performed the latter operation. “Don’t connect the wire till I give the word.”
“Don’t be alarmed,” said Dutch, quietly, as he held the other end in his hand. “I shall be careful.”
“But I am alarmed,” said Mr Parkley to himself. “He thinks life of no more value than the snuff of a candle, and I want to live as long as I can.”
“Now, are you nearly ready?” said the captain, who came up, followed by ’Pollo grinning, and having on a tin three great pieces of beef.
“Yes, quite ready,” said Dutch.