“What a nice ship!” she said. “May I come on board?”
“You’re quite welcome if you don’t get in the way,” was the reply.
Accepting this qualified permission, Annis stepped on board and walked quietly round the deck. At the companion she paused and looked round. Everybody was busy; and trembling with nervousness, she hesitated a moment and then descended into the dark cabin.
“That you, captain?” said a voice. “What are we stopping for?”
Annis made no reply.
“Who is it?” said the voice again.
“Hush!” said Annis.
“Oh, all right,” said Mr. Tillotson shortly. “What’s wrong?”
Annis hesitated, waiting to hear another voice, but in vain. She fancied that she heard another person breathing, but that was all.
“Father!” she cried, suddenly. “It’s me! Annis! Where are you?”