"It's getting interesting," said Johnson.
"It's delightful," thought the doctor.
"Well," cried Shandon, "at last we shall know his secret."
He tore open the envelope rapidly, and read the following:—
COMMANDER: The captain of the Forward is satisfied with the coolness, skill, and courage which the crew, officers, and you, yourself, have shown of late; he begs of you to express his thanks to the crew.
Be good enough to sail due north towards Melville Bay, and thence try to penetrate into Smith's Sound.
K. Z.,
Captain of the Forward.
Monday, April 30, OFF CAPE WALSINGHAM.
"And is that all?" cried the doctor.
"That's all," answered Shandon.