I
leaned over, seeking to trace its outline by some reflection of light
from within, but the receding side of the vessel baffled me. Yet,
assured that I must be correct in my measurements, I marked the spot on
the rail, and began search for some means by which I could open
communication with the girl below.
CHAPTER XXV
THE FREEDOM OF THE DECK
The flag locker was astern, and standing on it I could feel inside the
boat swung to the davits. It was a small, light boat, fashioned like a
cutter, a good sea-going craft for its size. Two oars and a short mast
together with a roll of canvas were stowed on top the thwarts, and
secured by lashings. I cut one of these, and drew forth about three
fathoms of line, sufficiently pliable for my purpose. The severed end
of cord I thrust down out of sight, where it would escape any
superficial examination. Anxious as I was to carry out my plans
rapidly I could not refrain from passing my hands over the boat,
impressed by its lightness and sea-going qualities, and inspired by the
thought it might eventually aid in our escape. It hung ready for
launching, the falls easily unhooked, and two pair of hands would be
sufficient to lower it into the water. There was a locker forward I
was unable to reach, but two water kegs, filled, were strapped under
the stern sheets, leading me to believe the craft was fully equipped
for immediate service.
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