“Ay, I am coming, too, Tommy.”
“No; it is utter madness,” cried Drew. “Stand here both of you, ready to help them when they come out.”
“Mean it, sir?” cried Smith.
“Yes, of course, man.”
“Hear that, Billy. Well, the mate didn’t tell us to come arter him, and they’re safe to come back.”
“Ay, they air—if they can,” said Wriggs gruffly.
“Ah, if they can, mate. That’s a true word,” cried Smith, “Hi! Look out. They’ve had enough of it a’ready.”
For at that moment one of the sailors ran staggering back through the darkness and fell heavily.
“Help, someone, help!” came in the mate’s voice, and by a tremendous effort he too staggered out, half bearing, half supporting Panton, and both falling heavily before they could be supported.
“Hi! All of you this way!” roared Smith, but his words were evidently not heard. However, they were unnecessary, for first two together and then three, the party of sailors tottered out overcome by the fumes, only one of them being sufficiently master of himself to sit down and hold his head; the others fell prone on the dry burnt ground.