he forecastle. While I in no way connected his
actions with myself, yet the disquieting thought as instantly occurred
to me that the negro's going forward had left the Captain and Viola
Henley alone below. If the steward was acting under orders his being
dispatched from the cabin at this hour was for a purpose. Determined
to learn what this purpose might be, I crept to the door of the
companion, and then down the stairs.

The main cabin was vacant, but the door of number 5 stateroom stood
slightly ajar. Assured I should find it empty, my heart already
beating furiously, I took a swift glance within. It in no way differed
from the room which had been assigned me opposite, and everything was
in perfect order. Evidently the girl had departed without a struggle,
and with full expectation of an early return. Her small hand-bag lay
on the berth unlatched, and a handkerchief, together with a pair of
gloves, were upon the chair. That she had not gone on deck was a
certainty, while the deserted cabin led me irresistibly to suspect the
Captain's quarters. He had dismissed the steward on some excuse,
opened her door, and, using some pretense, or authority, had impelled
her to accompany him. She had no means of resistance even if she had
suspected his purpose, and the probability was the fellow had been
plausible enough to achieve his point without violence. This was all
clear enough to my mind, but what I could do to help her, to overcome
him, was not so evident. I was alone, unarmed, surrounded by men under
his command.

Possibly, even now, I was under surveillance. The negro had left the
cabin, I knew, but where was Herman? Broussard was in charge of the
deck, and hence this would be the first mate's watch below. Impressed
with this disconcerting thought, I emerged again into the main cabin.
The stateroom doors were all closed, and I had to guess which was the
German's. I was sure, however, that Broussard occupied the first on
the port side; I had heard him open that door while talking to the
steward, and it was highly probable the first mate had the apartment
opposite. Judging from the position of the doors these would be larger
than the other staterooms, and, if Herman was the real navigator of the
boat, he would require good quarters. I listened at the door, but
heard nothing; then, rendered desperate by the delay, tried the knob
cautiously. The door was unlocked, opening noiselessly. A glance
convinced