I could not make out all that was said, but I could plainly see the effects of the conversation in the countenances of those present.
The mate was evidently much agitated, and presently, when some one mentioned the terrific appearance of Rogers' corpse, I thought he was upon the point of swooning.

Peters now asked him if he did not think it would be better to have the body thrown overboard at once as it was too horrible a sight to see it floundering about in the scuppers.

At this the villain absolutely gasped for breath, and turned his head slowly round upon his companions, as if imploring some one to go up and perform the task.

No one, however, stirred, and it was quite evident that the whole party were wound up to the highest pitch of nervous excitement.
Peters now made me the signal.

I immediately threw open the door of the companion-way, and, descending, without uttering a syllable, stood erect in the midst of the party.
The intense effect produced by this sudden apparition is not at all to be wondered at when the various circumstances are taken into consideration.