What could we do?
Why; we took the only precaution that was practicable under the circumstances, and resolved most carefully to exclude every breath of air from penetrating into the hold, For some time I hoped that we had been successful.

I thought that the fire was stifled; but during the last three days there is every reason to make us know that it has been gaining strength.

Do what we will, the deck gets hotter and hotter, and unless it were kept constantly wet, it would be unbearable to the feet.

But I am glad, Mr.Kazallon," he added; "that you have made the discovery.

It is better that you should know it." I listened in silence, I was now fully aroused to the gravity of the situation and thoroughly comprehended how we were in the very face of a calamity which it seemed that no human power could avert.
"Do you know what has caused the fire ?" I presently inquired.
"It probably arose," he answered, "from the spontaneous combustion of the cotton.