canvas be used to erect a shelter on the after deck, and this was
done. The rain by that time was driving steadily--a summer rain
without wind. The men seemed glad to have occupation, and, from that
time on, the tent which they erected over the hatchway aft of the
wheel was their living and eating quarters. It added something to
their comfort: I was not so certain that it added to their security.

Tuner was violent that day. I found all four women awake and dressed,
and Mrs. Turner, whose hour it was on duty, in a chair outside the
door. The stewardess, her arm in a sling, was making tea over a
spirit-lamp, and Elsa was helping her. Mrs. Johns was stretched on
a divan, and on the table lay a small revolver.

Clearly, Elsa had told the incident of the key. I felt at once the
atmosphere of antagonism. Mrs. Johns watched me coolly from under
lowered eyelids. The stewardess openly scowled. And Mrs. Turner
rose hastily, and glanced at Mrs. Johns, as if in doubt. Elsa had
her back to me, and was busy with the cups.

"I'm afraid you've had a bad night," I said.

"A very bad night," Mrs. Turner replied stiffly.

"Delirium?"

"Very marked. He has talked of a white figure--we cannot quite
make it out. It seems to be Wilmer--Mr. Vail."

She had not opened the door, but stood, nervously twisting her
fingers, before it.