About half the bunks seemed to be occupied, the figures of the sleeping men barely discernible, although their heavy breathing evidenced their presence, and added to the babel of sound.

Every bolt and beam creaked and groaned in the ceaseless struggle with the sea.
The bunk in which I had awakened was situated almost at the apex of the half circle, so that I had a clear view of the wider open space.
Those beneath me contained no occupants, nor, at first, could I distinguish any in the tier directly opposite.

Evidently the watch off duty preferred to seek their rest as far away as possible from those waves pounding against the bow.

However, as I sat there, staring about at this scene, and uncertain as to what my next move should be, there was a stir within the upper berth on my own level, and a moment later, an uplifted face appeared suddenly in the yellow flare of light.

It was manifestly an English face at first glance, rosy of cheek, with chestnut beard, and light, tousled hair.