"One great blot of light in the middle and all around in the corners--shadows.

We sit here in the blot of light--a fair mark.

But what's going on in the shadows, Mr .-- What's your name?
Eh?
What's going on in the shadows ?" Thresk had no doubt that Ballantyne's fear was genuine.

He was not putting forward merely an excuse for the scene which his guest had witnessed and might spread abroad on his return to Bombay.

No, he was really terrified.