“Yes, they have been true as steel,” said Mr Frewen. “You need not fear these men.”
“And that boy, Walters?”
“Oh, him, sir! He’s down below somewheres, and he’d better stay too,” growled Bob Hampton, “for if he shows his nose, young Mr Dale here’s going to tackle him pretty warmly.”
“But have you got the men prisoners?” said the captain, anxiously.
“Yes, quite safe.”
“Then the ship must be seen to. She’s labouring heavily. Tell Brymer—”
“I shall tell Mr Brymer nothing,” said Mr Frewen firmly. “You shall give him your orders instead. You can be at peace now, sir, so lie still patiently, and believe that everything possible will be done to preserve order and save the ship.”
“Yes; thank you,” said the captain, whose lip was quivering. “I know I must be patient. There, I’ll try and do what I have not done these many hours,—go to sleep. But bring me some news sometimes, Dale, my lad, I shall be so anxious to know.”
I promised him, and then we hurried out, for from time to time there was an anxious whispering going on in the next cabin, which appealed strongly to Mr Frewen and to me.
He pointed to the door as soon as we were outside, and his voice sounded very husky as he said—