Charles Beadle

“ AGAIN came a pause as Selwyn backed around, revealing the inroads of overindulgence in the painful gasps of his lungs. His face was blooded and one eye swollen. Carnell also was bleeding from the smash on the mouth. Although Vi cried out again in protest she was dimly conscious of a strange emotion which seemed to keep her limbs glued to the deck; an emotion which throbbed intoxicatingly at each successful blow from either man. ”

“ But as Carnell walked over to assist him Selwyn suddenly pointed the revolver and fired pointblank at Carnell. The men exclaimed. Vi cried out and rushed to Carnell, who had reeled to one side.
But as she reached him one man yelled “The swine!” and, turning, she saw Selwyn disappearing down the companion steps. But at the moment Vi was not concerned with him.
“Aren't you hurt?”
“He got my shoulder. I think that's all,” returned Carnell quietly. “Let me sit down for a moment. Never mind, men,” he called to two of the sailors who were disputing about the singing monkey at the companion hatch. ”

“ But just as he managed to grapple with her she succeeded in getting an arm lock. His next effort brought an oath of pain and he subsided quickly. As she caught sight of the mad professor with the wispy beard, and of two of the deserting crew running back across the deck he cried out:
“All right! All right! I'll give in!” ”