"Let's go see if there is any further report by wireless from the
_Bell_," suggested Ruth, who saw kindling wrath in the eyes of her
sister. Alice never could get along well with the two actresses, and she
was very likely to say something that might lead to a quarrel.

"I'll come along," said Paul.

"So will I," echoed Mr. Towne. In spite of his affected mannerisms, he
could be "nice," at times. It was Ruth who had said this, but then Ruth
had such a kind heart that she generally found a good quality in nearly
everyone, whatever their failings.

"Yes, she's coming on at full speed," reported the wireless operator.
"She'll be with us in about an hour, now. And I guess it's time, too," he
added in a low voice.

"Why?" asked Russ, when the girls had passed on.

"Because I believe the fire is gaining. I think it's in one of the coal
bunkers now, and that means it will burn steadily, and may eat through
the side of the ship."

The operator turned to his apparatus, for he had been told to keep in
constant communication with the oncoming rescue ship.

As Paul rejoined the girls, there sounded through the _Tarsus_ a dull
explosion, that made the ship tremble.

The commander was hurrying along the deck. Many of the passengers, who