The captain's room was soon emptied now, all going on deck. The night was very clear and starry, with a bright scimitar of a moon slowly sinking in the west.
Yes, Bobbie was right. Two men were dead, and the other three could scarcely speak, owing to sheer exhaustion.
"We'll hear their story to-morrow. Dr. Grant, I'll leave them in your charge."
"I shall see to them, sir," said Grant.
Then he shouted "Sentry!"
"Ay ay, sir."
"Pass the word for the sick-bay man."
In another quarter of an hour the poor fellows, English merchantmen, were snug and warm in hammocks. Grant ordered some beef-tea, with a modicum of brandy, and they soon fell sound asleep.
But so weak were they next day that the doctor forbade their talking, and it was three whole days before they were strong enough to tell their story.
A TERRIBLE TALE OF THE SEA.