CHAPTER IX
A MODERN COLUMBUS
Hardly knowing what to expect the two advanced into the cabin, when the figure turned and looked at them with pallid countenance.
“It's Caradoc!” cried Madden in great astonishment and relief. “Scots, Smith, you gave us a jolt! We thought—what's the matter, old chap? Heat again?”
The Englishman's long face was strained. “Would you—take that decanter away, please!” he begged unsteadily.
Instantly Leonard understood the temptation into which Caradoc had unwittingly wandered. A strong odor of wine pervaded the cabin, and Smith's knock-out had given his nerves a great craving for a stimulant.
Without a word, Leonard walked to the table, took the wine bottle by its neck and heaved it through the open port. The three men in their
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