CHAPTER VIII.
IN THE STOKE-HOLE.
Frank found the chief engineer taking some air.

Merry fell into conversation with the man, who was smoking and seemed quite willing to talk.
Having a pleasant and agreeable way, Frank easily led the engineer on, and it was not long before the man was quite taken with the chatty passenger.
Frank was careful not to seem inquisitive or prying, for he knew it would be easy to arouse the engineer's suspicions if there should be anything wrong on the steamer.
However, Merry was working for a privilege, and he obtained it.

When he expressed a desire to go below and have a look at the engines and furnaces, the engineer invited him to come along.
They passed through a door, and then began a descent by means of iron ladders.

The clanking roar of the machinery came up to them.

Frank could hear and feel the throbbing heart beats of the great boat.
The engine room was quickly reached, and there the engineer showed him the massive machinery that moved with the regularity of clockwork and the grace and ease that came from great power and perfect adjustment.
All this was interesting, but Frank was anxious to go still deeper.
"Go ahead," said the engineer, showing him the way.