"I'll have to go below first, and get my things," she said. "I suppose you know what is best, to go or stay?"
"Hurry," I said. "I will wait here at the companion."
She went below with a firm tread, and I heard her slam the door of her stateroom. Andrews looked toward me and spoke.
"You can leave the girl aboard," said he. "You'll have enough in the boat."
"Chips," I called, "stand by for a rush. Don't let Dalton get forward alive. Miss Sackett either goes with us, or we all stay here together and fight it out."
Andrews, who had recovered somewhat, now staggered to his feet and drew his knife.
"Stand by and follow along the port rail," he said to Journegan and
England. "You two," addressing Bell and Jenks, "go to starboard."
Dalton, who was below and separated from his fellows, would be our object.
Jenks, however, remonstrated at the attack.
"Hold on," said he, and England stopped. "What's the use of crowding in this thing like this? Some of us will get killed sure with seven fresh men out for it, and what's the use? All for a gal. No, sir, says I, don't go making a fool job of the thing. I ain't out for murder, not fer no gal."