A MURDER ON BOARD The fellow made scarcely a sound as he advanced, yet, as I waited breathlessly, I felt assured of his stealthy approach.

To be certain of free space I extended one hand and my fingers came into unexpected contact with the back of a chair.

Without moving my body I grasped this welcome weapon of defense and swung it above my head.

Whoever the invader creeping upon us might prove to be, he was certainly an enemy, actuated by some foul purpose, and, no doubt armed.

To strike him down as quickly and silently as possible was therefore the plain duty of the moment.