ON DECK 103

between its main and fore masts? Is it a boat worked by
electricity, with either a battery of accumulators or coils of
considerable power, which work its screw and give it such
speed ?

In fact, I cannot account for this navigation in any
other way. In any case, since the propeller can only bea
screw, I shall see it working by leaning over the taffrail,
and I shall then have only to recognize the mechanical
source of the movement.

The man at the wheel glances at me scornfully, but
allows me to approach.

I lean over and I see—

Not a trace of the boiling and whirling which the rota-
tion of the screw produces. Nothing but a smooth track
extending for three or four cable-lengths, such as a ship in
full sail leaves behind her. But what is the motor that
drives the schooner with such marvellous speed? I have
said that the wind is unfavourable, and the sea rolling in
long, unbroken undulations.

I will know, however, and, as the crew take no notice
of me, I again turn towards the bows.

As I reached the companion I found myself in the
presence of a man whose face was not unknown to me.
With his arms resting on the edge of the skylight, he
watched me as I draw near.

He seems waiting for me to speak.

My memory comes back again. This is the man who
accompanied Count d’Artigas on his visit to Healthful
House. Yes! there is no mistake.