ANTICIPATING TROUBLE. 55

mind, and was eager to accomplish his purpose and leave
the cabin before she could ask any more questions.

In this he was not successful, however.

He found in the captain’s desk a serviceable “Colt,”
with plenty of ammunition, but looked in vain for more.

Evidently this was the extent of the ship’s stores in the
way of weapons (if one excepted the old cannon spoken
of by the steward), and hastily placing these articles in
his pockets, Ben turned to retrace his steps.

He was met at the door of the room by Miss Dunham,
who, while not appearing absolutely frightened, wore an
expression of anxiety which was very apparent to the
young man.

‘«‘ Eliphalet has told you something which causes you to
think there may be danger,” she said. “It would be
unkind to leave me in ignorance, more especially since
you know, from what has already occurred, that I may be
depended upon to at least control my feelings during a
time of peril. Now, captain, will you please tell me why
you came so suddenly for father’s revolver?”

The last question was spoken in an imploring tone.
The young girl had laid her hand coaxingly on Ben’s
arm, and his susceptible heart was not proof against
her pleading.

Hastily turning the matter in his mind, he concluded
that it might be better to inform her of all the steward
had told him, save, perhaps, with the exception of the
alleged ghosts, and replied in such a frank tone that she
could have no question as to the truth of the words.