He was already at the foot of the companion stairs; in another minute would be on deck.
There was no time to do otherwise, and I released my grasp of the rope, letting it drop silently into the water.

I had barely turned my back to the rail when Henley emerged within six feet of me.

For an instant his gaze was forward, and then, as his eyes accustomed themselves to the darkness, he turned slightly and perceived me, peering at me in uncertainty.
"Who is this?
Oh, you, Craig," he questioned sharply.

"Not asleep yet ?" "Not even drowsy," I said, pretending an ease I was far from feeling.
"The crack on my head yesterday pains considerable, and besides I wanted to think over your proposition a bit." "You must have the skull of an elephant, or a negro, to have any head at all," he agreed, apparently satisfied.

"But I would advise sleep nevertheless.