We shall have no trouble at all." As soon as the dishes were washed and stowed away in the mess-chest, Frank went to find his cousin, who was always ready for any mischief of that kind, and readily agreed to the proposal.

When bedtime came, the three slung their hammocks together, and, to all appearances, were soon fast asleep.

At nine o'clock the ship's corporal put out all the berth-deck lights, which left the place shrouded in darkness.

As soon as he had gone forward again, Simpson raised himself on his elbow, and whispered: "Turn out, lads.

Now's our time." The boys crept noiselessly out of their hammocks, and followed the sailor, who led the way directly to the galley, which was, in fact, a small house, about ten feet square, built on the deck, to which it was insecurely fastened.