The well-lighted wireless room was just behind the chart-house; and immediately in front, on the other side of the steering-wheel, they saw the unmistakable silhouettes of Hawkins and Weston.
The rhythmic suction of the air-pumps and the sharp creaking of the windlass could be heard far and wide in the stillness of the night.
"Now then, go ahead," said Wallion.
Tom straightened himself and noiselessly entered the hut. Moreland looked up, and turned pale when he saw the revolver pointed at his head.
"Sit still," said Tom, in a commanding tone; "if you move I fire."
The telegraphist sat as motionless as a stone image.
Meanwhile Wallion crept up behind Hawkins and Western.
"Gentlemen," he said, "this is no time for talking; I shall fire without compunction, if necessary. Go to the wireless room at once in front of me."
They obeyed with hands up, and he ordered them to sit down with their hands in front of them. Then he locked the door.
"Now for a little explanation," he said with a smile. "I regret having to act in this cavalier fashion, but I had to make you hear what I have to say, without raising an alarm; you take us for two bandits belonging to the Black Hand gang, don't you?"