For some moments he was stupefied, overwhelmed with dismay, and unable to act. It was difficult to believe the pearl was missing, yet there was no doubt about it. Who had taken it? Where was it now? These were questions he could not answer. He rushed on deck, half dressed, and encountered Jacob Rank.
"What's up now?" asked the astounded Jacob, recognising something serious must have occurred.
"The pearl's gone," gasped Jack.
"The pearl! Which pearl?" asked Jacob.
"The black pearl. It is not in the case."
"Then it must have fallen out. Have you looked about your cabin?"
"The lock has been forced; someone has stolen it," said Jack.
"How could anyone steal it when you had the belt round you?"
"I do not know, but it has gone. What are we to do?"
"Find it," said Jacob. "It will be in your cabin somewhere. We will go and search for it."