commander as he walked forward.

A few minutes later Mr. Tarbill rushed up on deck. He had a
life-preserver strapped about him, and in either hand was a valise,
while over his shoulder was some spare clothing he had not had time
to pack in the satchels.

"Are the lifeboats ready?" he asked of Mr. Carr, who was the first
person he met on deck.

"The lifeboats? What for?"

"Why, the ship has been rammed by a whale and is sinking."

"Who told you so?"

"That boy, Bob Henderson."

"I thought so!" exclaimed the mate. "That's one of his so-called
'jokes.' There's no danger, Mr. Tarbill. That was only a big wave
that hit us. You are perfectly safe."

"Are you sure?"

"Quite sure."

"Don't you think I had better see the captain and ask him about it
before I take off my life-preserver?"

"Oh, no; there is no need of that. The ship is in no danger," and