In the smoke-room the invariable word went round that raiders were sinking everything in sight.

Every ship that sailed had on board at least one individual who claimed to have been chased on a former voyage by a blockade-breaker,--( according to the most reliable reports, the Germans were slipping warships through the vaunted British net with the most astounding ease and frequency,)--and there was no one with the hardihood or desire to question his veracity; indeed, it was something of a joy to believe him, for was he not a living and potential document to prove that the merchant marine could outwit, outrace and outshoot the German pirates?
The Doraine was barely twenty-four hours out from port and ploughing along steadily through a choppy sea when Mr.Mott, the First Officer, reported to Captain Trigger that a stowaway had been found on board.
"German ?" inquired Captain Trigger tersely.
"No, sir.

At least, he doesn't look it and, what's more, he doesn't act it.

Claims to be American born and bred." "That's what a great many Germans are claiming these days, Mr.Mott.

We can't take any chances, you know.