I have brought with me the means of aiding your escape." "Of aiding my escape, Walsham! You must be mad! I am too securely fastened here; and, even were it not so, I would not accept a kindness which would cost you your commission, were it known." "As to the second reason, you may make your mind easy.

From words which dropped, from the admiral, I am sure that everyone will be so glad, at your escape, that no very strict inquiry will be made.

In the next place, your fastenings are not so very secure.

The porthole is screwed down as usual." "Yes," Horton said; "but, in addition, there are a dozen strong screws placed round it." "Here is a long turn-screw which will take them out as quickly as the carpenter put them in," James said, producing the tool; "and here," and he opened his coat, "is a rope for lowering yourself down into the water." "You are very good, James," Horton said quietly; "but it is no use.

I can't swim." "I know you could not, as a boy," James replied, "and I thought it likely enough that you have not learned since; but I think, with these, you may make a shift to get ashore," and he produced four bladders and some strong lashing.