Broussard stared in my direction for a moment, but made no effort to follow, and finally disappeared forward.

There was nothing on sea or land to distract my attention, and I felt that I would be nearer to her below in the cabin than on deck.

The skylight was closed, although even then it gave me a partial view, and, as I gazed through the clouded glass, I perceived a shadow pass.

The next instant the negro steward emerged from the companion.

Some swift impulse led me to crouch instantly out of sight, until the sound of his feet on the deck convinced me the fellow was going forward.