My position afforded as good a view forward as the darkness would permit, and likewise enabled me to see into the dimly lit cabin below.

The fact that Henley--for whatever his name might be, this was the one to which he laid claim--had not left his stateroom, or made any effort to observe my movements, was a decided encouragement.

Beyond all question he believed me safely in his grasp, and his promise of liberty on board was being substantiated.

I was not to be watched, or spied upon.

For the first time I began to feel a true sense of freedom.
The deck forward of the main mast was too dark for observation, although I was certain of a group of men gathered in the waist to leeward.