There was a good-sized engine house forward, beyond the galley and forecastle.

Evidently the work of hoisting anchors and canvas was done by steam.
The captain strolled about, looking her over.

The number of improvements since his seagoing days was astonishing.

He was standing by the wheel, near the companion way, wishing that he might inspect the officers' quarters, but not liking to do so without an invitation, when two men emerged from the cabin.
One of the pair was evidently the Japanese steward of the ship.

The other was a tall, clean-cut young fellow, whose general appearance and lack of sunburn showed quite plainly that he was not a seafaring man by profession.