"There is something worse than that on board, or the skipper would not have acted so much like a lunatic," Dave told himself.
Next inspecting the engine room and stoke hole he found these departments in order, though the fires under the boilers would soon need attention.
Going above, Dave called the stokers and engineers out from among the prisoners, told them that he intended to send them to their posts, and asked them if they would pledge themselves to obey all orders and bridge signals, and not attempt any treachery.
This promise was quickly given.
"I hope you will all keep your word," Dave added, firmly, "for, if any of you attempts treachery, he will be shot down where he stands. I shall post guards."
He posted two of his men in the engine-room, and four in the stoke-hole.
"Be vigilant, and don't stand any nonsense," he ordered.
Returning to deck he gave his final orders to Ensign Peters, who had come on board and relieved the boatswain's mate.
"We are going to take this ship through to our base port," he informed the ensign. "You will command, and will use the petty officers as you need them. I shall require but three of the launch crew to take me back to the 'Grigsby.' You have sufficient force here, Mr. Peters, but we shall stand by and so be ready to give any assistance you may need. Keep yourself informed as to the comfort and conduct of the women prisoners in the dining cabin, and do not permit them to be annoyed by your men. They must have no chance, though, to destroy or conceal any papers they may have on their persons."
With that Darrin went over the side. The launch took him back to his own craft.