watched him in silence. But it was not a peaceful calm.

I found Newman in the port foc'sle, talking to Holy Joe. When I
entered, I heard Newman say: "They are good, simple lads--use your
authority as a minister. Reason, command, do your best to convince
them they must be obedient. Tell them they will be the ones to suffer
in case of trouble."

"I will do my best," the parson answered. With a nod to me, he went
out on deck.

"Who was he?" I asked, when we were alone.

Newman looked blank.

"The spy," I added. "Didn't you ask the Nigger?"

"Oh, that--I have been too busy to bother about it," was the careless
response. "It really doesn't matter, Jack; I dare say it was some one
_he_ set to dog my heels." He inclined his head aft to indicate who
"he" might be.

"But--remember what happened that night on the yardarm! And--I heard
some of you talk aft there; I couldn't help hearing! I tell you,
Newman, the afterguard is awake and waiting; the Old Man is afraid of
trouble. I think he is afraid you will lead the crowd, and try to take
the ship."

"No; he is afraid I won't," said Newman.

I blinked. The words struck me with the force of a blow.

The big man smiled at my puzzled expression, and his hand clapped upon
my shoulder with a firm, friendly pressure. "Strange things happen in
this ship, eh, Jack?" said he, in a kindly voice. "No wonder you are
stumped, you are too young and straightforward to be alert to intrigue.
You do not understand, yet you are eager to risk your skin in another
man's quarrel? And you believe in me, eh, Jack?"

I felt embarrassed, and a little resentful. I did not like to be
reminded so bluntly of my youth and inexperience.

"You saved my life, and I don't forget a debt like that," I growled,
ungraciously.

Newman gave a little chuckle. He knew very well it was liking, not
debt, that made me his man.

"I want you to know, Jack, that your friendship is a strength to me,"
he said, with sudden earnestness. "It is a strength and a comfort to
her, too. Your unquestioning faith in me has given both of us courage.
You have helped me regain my own faith in men and in right. Heaven
knows, a man needs faith in this ship!"

Oh, but I was exalted by these words! I was in the hero-worship stage
of life, and this mysterious giant by my side was my chosen idol. The
lady aft had quickened into activity whatever chivalry my nature
contained, and it was pure, romantic delight