He may have scanned the meager forces at his disposal and felt that he was asking the gods for more than they could grant.

A few minutes earlier he had put forth the suave suggestion that Hozier should be given the speediest chance of securing the girl's safety.

That was politic; perhaps his stanch nerve was yielding to the strain, now that the two islanders were gone on their doubtful quest.

Be that as it may, his attitude did not encourage light conversation.

Even Coke withheld some jibe at the unfortunate mate's expense.