"Well, it's likely all this worry about this vessel and cargo is
entirely needless and foolish."

"I don't believe it," said the Virginian. "I know now that the captain
has been worried. I have noticed it in his manner. He is pale and
restless."

"Well, it's likely he may be rather anxious, for it's certain he cannot
carry any insurance on such a cargo."

"He was not at the table to-night."

"No."

"I'd give something to be on solid ground and away from this powder
mill. You know that sometimes there is such a thing as an unaccountable
explosion. A heavy sea must cause motion or friction in the cargo, and
friction often starts a fire on shipboard. Fire on this vessel means a
quick road to glory."

"Huah!" grunted Bruce. "I'm not in the habit of worrying about things
that may happen. It's cold out here. Let's go back to the stateroom."

"It will be well enough to keep still about the nature of the cargo,
Diamond," said Frank.

"Oh, I shall keep still about that all right!" assured Jack.

As they moved back along the deck they discovered somebody who was
leaning over the rail and making all sorts of dismal sounds and groans.