As each comes out a weapon will be placed in his hands, and he will be then led to the starboard side of the hold, which is free from encumbrance, and will there stand until he receives orders to move further.

Remember that not the slightest noise must be made, for if any stumbled and fell, and the noise were heard above, it might be thought that some of the stores had shifted from their places, and men would be sent below to secure them.

The alarm would be given, and a light or other signal shown the other ships, before we could overpower all resistance.

After the men are all ranged up as I have directed, they will have to remain there for some little time, while we complete our arrangements." As soon as the sailors were all armed, and ready for action, Francis entered the after hold, where Matteo and another had been engaged in cutting the planks quite through.

They had just completed the task when he reached them, and had quietly removed the two pieces of plank.
Francis had already given his orders to his companions, and each knew the order in which they were to ascend.
A dim light streamed down from the hole.