"Yes," said I. "The man who was dismissed is still on board. He is acting as stoker."
She compressed her lips and eyed me.
"That spells, madam, business," said I.
"What is to be done?" she asked quietly, but I could see her bosom moving with excitement.
"I have come to you first because it is you who must prepare the Prince and persuade him of the crisis. I will go to the captain with my tale, and Heaven knows how I shall be received. It is the Prince who must act."
"Yes—yes," she said quickly. "Go at once. I will find my brother."
Day was in his cabin, and, knocking, I entered without waiting for permission. I found him with his arm bared and a syringe in his hand. He stared at me and scowled.
"There is no time for words, sir," said I. "Pierce is on board, and there is danger. There will probably be a rising to-night."
He threw the syringe down. "I'm very glad to hear it," he declared, in even tones. "Take that away, doctor. Where's Sir John Barraclough?"
I told him that he was on the bridge.