I watched him cautiously; he stopped twice to glance back, but, perceiving nothing, finally vanished into the forecastle.

While I in no way connected his actions with myself, yet the disquieting thought as instantly occurred to me that the negro's going forward had left the Captain and Viola Henley alone below.

If the steward was acting under orders his being dispatched from the cabin at this hour was for a purpose.

Determined to learn what this purpose might be, I crept to the door of the companion, and then down the stairs.
The main cabin was vacant, but the door of number 5 stateroom stood slightly ajar.

Assured I should find it empty, my heart already beating furiously, I took a swift glance within.