I know how such an effort will try you, but the end may be well worth the sacrifice.

I doubt if even Estada will resort to force on board; indeed force will be the very last card he will care to play in your case.

He is a brute, and capable of any crime, yet at heart a coward.

There is reason why he will fear to assault you.

You are English and all the practical seamen on board are from northern Europe--English and Scandinavian.