bowed head, misery in
his face and manner.

Fully two thirds of their return journey had been accomplished when
they were startled by the sound of three long blasts from the Storm King
whistle. What new danger might portend?

Onward now they pressed with the utmost speed, and arriving at the
water's edge they saw the welcome sight of the Storm King riding safely
at anchor, and recognized two familiar figures on the bridge. Jim was
one, safe and sound to all appearances, and the other Jranvin, the
Rarihue chief.

Another sight greeted their eyes. It was two long, rakish crafts, manned
by many dusky islanders which lay peacefully enough along side the big
ship.

In a brief interval all were on board and explanations were in order.
Jim was uproariously welcomed and quickly told his story, which brought
astonishment to the ears of his listeners. Briefly this was his tale:
The steward had unlocked his door and paved the way for his escape, but
Jim had not rowed ashore. He had observed the contending factions of the
two ships, who having rescued from the water those who had fallen
overboard from the long boat, for the nonce fraternized and were bent
on a visit to the Marjorie for further orgies and libations.

Noting the absence of Broome's men from the decks of the Sea Eagle, Jim
had quickly changed his plan. He had ordered his two oarsmen to row him
to that vessel. On the deck he had found only the Swedes and their
commander, Captain Luhrensen. Boarding the ship, Jim had said: "I am the
owner of this boat."

It was an astonishing declaration, but Jim drew from his pocket papers
which bore out his assertion, and he soon won to his standard the
ship-wrecked commander, and with him, of course, went his crew. At once
the ship had been gotten under way. Broome and his crew were all on
board the Marjorie. It was evident that Beauchamp and Broome and other
officers were securely imprisoned in the Marjorie cabin while the
sailors were discussing with more or less forceful animation their next
move.

Jim, with the decks of his beloved Sea Eagle once more beneath his feet,
had made all speed under sail and steam to the entrance of the harbor
where lay the Storm King, and had come aboard to report his safety and
the successful outcome of his venture.

One startling tale had scarcely been assimilated when another was
offered for their consideration.

The chief of Rarihue stepped forward and embracing the professor, said: