All this while I was alone on deck, except for the crew and Thomas Lie.

The rest had gone below; I had offered to follow, but a gesture from M.Colbert sent me back.

The sense of helplessness was on me, overwhelming and bitter.

When the time came for my part I should be sent for, until then none had need of me.

I could guess well enough what was passing below, and I found no comfort in the knowledge of it.