The steamer rolled heavily between the big waves.

The young man leaned on the railing, and watched the ship's deck dip nearly to the water, then heave back until the iron sides were exposed nearly to the keel.
Chester was about to turn in for the night when he heard a commotion, apparently among the third class passengers.

He walked along to where he could look down on the forward main deck.

A number of people were running about shouting excitedly.

Chester ran down the steps to get a nearer view.
"What's the matter ?" he asked.
"I don't know.