and we are flooding that compartment. The fire will be out shortly, I
expect.

"So there is absolutely no need of taking to the boats. Later on, if
there should be, I will give you ample warning, and I might add that we
carry a sufficient complement of boats and life rafts to accommodate all.
And should we take to the boats, the weather is in our favor. So you see
you should not worry."

"But suppose we have to take to the boats at night?" asked Mr. Sneed, who
seemed to have the faculty for hitting on the most unhappy aspect of any
situation.

"The fire cannot possibly get beyond control before morning, even if it
is not put out," the captain replied. "So there will be no need of boats
in the night. Even if there were, we have powerful searchlights, and each
boat carries her own storage battery lighting plant. Now, please be
reasonable."

His words had a calming effect, and those who had rushed up to take to
the boats now began to disperse.

Russ, who had come on deck with Mr. DeVere, was seen talking to Mr.
Pertell. As the two advanced toward Ruth and Alice the girls heard Russ
saying:

"I'm going to make moving pictures of the fire scenes."

"A good idea!" commented Mr. Pertell. "If the captain will let you."