Paul well understood the meaning of it and knew it to be the work of the second mate, who had beaten the men over the head with a belaying pin while they were reefing. Shortly after the captain came on deck, Paul called his attention to the blood-stained sail and said: "This work has got to be stopped."
The captain shrugged his shoulders. "What can we do?"
"That's for you to say," answered Paul. "You're in command here."
"Well, I'll have to talk with Stanley when he turns out."
At seven bells the order: "Pump ship, call the watch," was given. The watch was called but failed to respond. The sailor sent to call it again reported that port watch did not intend to turn out. It was now eight bells and time for Paul's watch to go below. The captain came on deck followed by the second mate, with whom he had been remonstrating. Paul reported that the watch had been called out but refused to come. The second mate with a terrible oath started forward saying:
"I'll have the dogs on deck mighty soon."
He reached the forecastle door and flung it back. The same moment both Paul and the captain saw him stagger and fall to deck. He bellowed lustily for help. The captain and Paul rushed to his assistance and found him bleeding profusely from knife wounds in the breast and abdomen, while the port watch with drawn knives stood sullen and determined looking in the forecastle. This sight staggered the captain who exclaimed:
"Mutiny by the eternal!" and called loudly for the steward to bring him his revolver.
Paul ordered some of his watch to carry the mate, who was groaning, aft, then advancing to the forecastle door said:
"Boys, this is not right. This must not be. Put up those knives. If you have any grievances come out like men and give them to the captain."