In these piping times of peace—and certainly in these seas—this could but be regarded as very strange. To the visitors it even had a sinister look.
On their way to the cabin Wade had an opportunity to whisper to Frank:
“Did you note those pistols?”
“Yes,” replied Frank.
“Are they cranks or pirates?”
Frank could hardly restrain a laugh.
“It is very mysterious!” he said. “Keep your eyes open. We will soon find out what it means.”
As they entered the cabin Poole motioned them to seats at a table. He sat opposite.
He was now plainly revealed in the glare of the cabin lamp. As his visitors thus got a good look at him, each experienced a peculiar sensation.
It seemed almost like a chill.