So, after a moment of hesitation, I found my way across to my own stateroom and pressed open the door.
A misty light came in through the port, sufficient to show me all was exactly as I had left it, and I flung off my jacket preparatory to lying down for a short rest before being recalled for the watch on deck.

The hilt of the knife in my belt attracted my attention, and I drew it forth, curious to learn if it bore any mark of ownership.
Whether it did, or not, I shall never know, as my eyes were instantly attracted to a dark stain on both hilt and blade.

I held it to the light--it was the stain of blood, and my hands were also reddened by it.

In that first instant of horror, I hurled the weapon out through the open port into the sea.

Blood! human blood, without doubt! There had been murder committed on board, and the fellow I had struck down was seeking refuge, endeavoring to find concealment following his crime.