is nearly impossible to be reached. We are holding our own
very well, and we can jog along in this way for some time, so there is
no immediate danger."

Chester experienced a sinking at the heart. From the many questions
which thronged into his mind, he put this:

"When might there be danger?"

"If the leak gets bad and the pumps can not handle it. Then a rough sea
is to be dreaded."

"What can we do?"

"At present, nothing but keep cool. You are the only one of the
passengers that knows anything about this, and I am telling you because
I can trust you to be wise and brave, if necessary. If things do not
improve, we shall soon be getting our boats in shape. We shall do this
as quietly as possible, but someone might see and ask questions. We
shall depend on you--and I'll promise to keep you posted on the ship's
true condition."

"Thank you, sir."

"And now," said the captain as his face resumed its cheerful expression,
"I must make a trip below. When you see me on the bridge again, come up
and make that explanation which Mr. Strong said you were able to do. I
shall be mighty glad to listen to you."

Chester protested, but the captain would not hear it. "I'll be up in the
course of half an hour," said the seaman. "Promise me you'll come?"

"Of course, if you really wish it?"

"I was never more earnest in my life. My boy, let me tell you
something'. I have listened at times to your conversation on religious
themes--you and Lucy have talked when I could not help hearing--and I
want to hear more--I believe you have a message for me."

There was a smile on the captain's face as he hurried away. And
Chester's heart also arose and was comforted, as he lingered for a few
moments on the deck and then joined Lucy and his father.

CHAPTER XX.

In blissful ignorance of any danger, the passengers and most of the crew
went the daily round of pleasure or duty. The games on deck, the smoking
and card-playing in the gentlemen's room, the sleeping and the eating
all went on uninterrupted. Captain Brown, though quieter than usual, was
as pleasant and thoughtful as ever. The sea was smooth, the weather
fine, and the ship plowed on her course with no visible indication that
she was slowly being crippled.

Lucy had for her use, one of the largest and best ventilated rooms in
the ship. It was so pleasant there, that she spent much of her time in
its seclusiveness. It is needless to state that Chester shared that
com