"There is nothing to be learned here." It was an ordinary bar-room, and their entrance apparently aroused no special interest.

Besides the man behind the bar, a rather rough looking foreigner, a Pole in West's judgment, three customers were in the place, two with feet upon the rail talking with the drink dispenser, and, one at a small table moodily contemplating a half emptied stein of beer.

There were three other tables in the room, and the Captain with a swift glance about, drew out a chair and sat down, his action being imitated by Sexton.

The bar-tender came forward around the end of the bar, while the man nearest shifted his position slightly so as to look them over, conversation instantly ceasing.

Something indefinable in the fellow's attitude, and steady stare, gave West a feeling of hostility, which was not dispelled by the gruff greeting of the bar-tender.
"Well, what is it you fellers want ?" "A stein apiece, and a sandwich--you serve them, don't you ?" "Sure; ham or beef ?" "Ham." There was no cordiality, no welcome in either manner or speech.