68 THE BOY CAPTAIN.

expected to use both in case any weapon should be neces-
sary, while he was forced to carry the lamp in one hand,
it is difficult to say, and then stepped out of the galley
as a signal that he was ready to accompany the young
captain on what might prove to be a decidedly perilous
errand.

Ben gave one quick glance toward the shore to satisfy
himself there had been no change in the general arrange-
ment of the sampans, and then, warning Eliphalet that he
must remain close in the rear in order that the tiny flame
should be given the best possible opportunity for dispel-
ling the darkness, he descended through the fore hatch-
way.

At this point the old darkey’s courage failed him en-
tirely, and, instead of following agreeably to the instruc-
tions given, he leaned over the combing, and lowered the
lantern into the well-like apartment ; but without trusting
his precious body below the deck.

Not a sound could be heard.

The silence was as that of the grave, and the darkness
so intense that the tiny yellow flame only served to ren-
der it almost palpable.

«Come out here and show yourselves, or you'll stand a
good chance of getting a few bullets in your heads!” Ben
cried, standing with his back against a stanchion in order
to protect himself from an attack in the rear, and trying
in vain to pierce the gloom with his eyes.

There was no response, and but for the fact that Miss
Dunham had been so impressed with the idea that one or