I watched them lay out on the yards and was heartened to hear the fellows sing as they worked, the canvas melting away as if by magic.

Only three men remained in sight on the main deck, the two guarding the closed hatch, and one watching the open scuttle leading into the deserted forecastle.

Back and forth in the galley the cook and his assistant passed the open door and Carter had disappeared through the companion.
I climbed the ladder to where LeVere stood on the poop, but carefully ignored his presence, my gaze on the scene aloft.

Twice I gave orders, changing the steering direction slightly, and commanding the lower sails reefed.

The mulatto scowling, joined me at the rail.
"Main-top there!" I called sharply.