"You are not much of a sea-dog, captain."
"It isn't that, Pennington: I am anxious to get into the fight,—if there is any fighting."
"Oh, so am I," replied Gilbert quickly. "I am curious to learn the latest news. I wonder if the Allies have moved on Tien-Tsin yet?"
"More than likely, since that lies between Taku and Pekin."
The day was cloudy, and toward midnight the wind came up strongly. As the course of the transport was now along numerous islands and between dangerous reefs, she had to proceed slowly and with caution.
For some reason Gilbert had a headache, and retired early. As was usual, he slipped off only his coat and shoes, placing the former under his pillow.
Although he did not know it, his movements were closely watched by Nuggy Polk, who had made up his mind that he must obtain possession of the letter, were such a thing possible. As the hour was early, there were but few soldiers below. So the coast was comparatively clear.
Almost holding his breath, for fear of awakening
