"Captain Somers," called Mr. Hudson.
"What is wanted?"
"The men in the hold report a smell of fire there."
"I will be with you soon," replied Somers, convinced by this message that there was some foundation for the threats of the traitor. "Go into the hold, Mr. Hudson, and find the fire, if there is any."
He was cool, and did not permit the wretch before him to see a muscle of his face move.
"There is fire there, Somers," said Pillgrim. "I know just where it is. In a few minutes it will reach the ammunition boxes."
"Corporal," said Somers, opening the door again.
"Here, sir."
"Put the prisoner in irons, hands and feet," continued Somers.
"Do you mean that, Mr. Somers?" asked Pillgrim, quivering with emotion.