And this cautious low tone as though he were watched by someone was more than funny.

The young second officer hesitated to break the established rule of every ship's discipline; but at last could not resist the temptation of getting hold of some other human being, and spoke to the man at the wheel.
"Did you hear what this gentleman was saying to me ?" "No, sir," answered the sailor quietly.

Then, encouraged by this evidence of laxity in his officer, made bold to add, "A queer fish, sir." This was tentative, and Mr.Powell, busy with his own view, not saying anything, he ventured further.

"They are more like passengers.

One sees some queer passengers." "Who are like passengers ?" asked Powell gruffly.
"Why, these two, sir.".