"We could hold the cabin for a good while," remarked the mid., tentatively.
"And get starved out in forty-eight hours. Won't do, Cardyke. If things come to the worst, we must sally out, try and release the other unfortunate beings who have fallen into Cervillo's clutches, and sell our lives as dearly as possible. What say you, general?"
"I tink we might capture ship," replied Oki. "Clear dis end, take pistols from arms-rack, and turn this part into castle."
"We'll have a shot at it, at all events," exclaimed Fielding, enthusiastically. "If only we had more ammunition, I'd tackle the job to-night."
"Better wait till we're within the Arctic circle," observed Cardyke.
"Why?"
"Those Spaniards and Italians, to say nothing of the Algerines and the blacks, won't be able to stand the cold as well as we can. They'll be torpid."
"Something in that," agreed Fielding. "But at present it's hot enough for my liking. I vote we turn in."
Shortly after midnight Cardyke awoke to find the two Japs up and about. Hokosuka was kneeling in front of the door with one ear close against the lock, while Oki was standing with a lighted lamp in his hand. Seeing the mid. stir, Oki placed a finger on his lips to enjoin silence and pointed towards Fielding's bunk, indicating that the sub. was to be aroused.
One touch of Cardyke's hand was enough. Fielding opened his eyes, and without uttering a sound, sprang to his feet.