.

THE MONOTONY BREAKS.
They looked again, the tiny spark still burned, and immediately over it there grew out of the darkness a crimson spot, that hung like a lurid star in the air.

The soldiers and sailors on the forecastle had seen it also, and in a moment the whole vessel was astir.

Mrs.Vickers, with little Sylvia clinging to her dress, came up to share the new sensation; and at the sight of her mistress, the modest maid withdrew discreetly from Frere's side.

Not that there was any need to do so; no one heeded her.