“Ay, ay, sir.”

They went up the ladder one by one, and disappeared onto the deck above, the majority cheerful enough, although a few of the faces were scowling darkly as they passed me.  Carlson and I watched the others, the Swede still retaining his pistol in hand, until Carter stuck his head once again through the opening.

“All safe, sir—­they was like lambs.”

“Very well; stand by to help.  Now you lads, lift this black brute and shove him up to where they can get hold above.  Step lively unless you want trouble.  Show them the way Carlson.”

It was some heavy job, but they finally hoisted the unconscious form up the ladder and forced it through the hole onto the deck.  At my stern command the others also crawled forth into the sunlight, where Carlson and I followed them, leaving the forecastle deserted.  I felt that I must dispose of these fellows before attempting anything else, and scarcely took time to glance about.  They were huddled in a little bunch around the outstretched body of Cochose, helpless from lack of leadership.

“Pick up the negro; yes, you fellows.  Now aft with him—­all of you.”  We halted at the main hatch, and I had the cover slipped to one side, the armed sailors gathering close about the edge, as I peered down.  It was a scene of pandemonium, revealed in the yellow flame of slush lanterns, a group of white faces showing clearly, as the prisoners below struggled forward, gesticulating and shouting.  The glow of light glistened on a variety of weapons, but I dare not send men below, into the midst of those shrieking devils to disarm them.  Nor was I greatly afraid of the result at present.  They must still be in total ignorance of what had occurred on board, and why the hatch had been fastened down.  Indeed this was plainly evidenced by their cries and threats.  They were leaderless, confused, unable to determine what to attempt.  While they remained in that condition they could not greatly endanger my plan.  Later, with a body of armed seamen behind me, I would compel the surrender of weapons, but now I must hold them as they were, quarreling among themselves, and take time to strengthen my authority on deck.  With this in mind, ignoring their mad roaring, and the threat of leveled guns, I stared down at the infuriated faces, until the clamor ceased sufficiently to let my voice be heard.  I used Spanish, my lack of facility in that tongue rendering my speech slow.  The instant silence proved my words understood.

“What are you men trying to do, frighten me?  You might as well stop that.  This opening is lined with guns, and if one of you fire a shot we’ll pour lead into you.  More than that; if you attempt to climb out, you’ll meet a hot reception.  There is a brass carronade trained on the hatch to sweep you to kingdom come.  So listen!”

Several voices shouted up inquiries, but one, shrill and insistent, rose clearly above the others.