knowledge of his failure. "Bring him outside in the open. I'll deal
with him!"

He retreated from the door, but before any of the sailors could go in
to fulfill the order, Harrigan walked of his own accord out onto the
deck. The wind on his face was sweet and keen; the vapors blew from
eyes and brain. He was himself again, weaker, but himself. He saw the
circle of wondering, awe-stricken faces; he saw McTee standing with
folded arms.




CHAPTER 7


"Mutiny on the high seas," the captain was saying, "is as bad as murder
on dry land. I could swing you by the neck from the mast for this,
Harrigan, and every court would uphold me. Or I can throw you into the
irons and leave your trial until we touch port. But--stand back!"

At the wave of his hand the circle spread. McTee stepped close to
Harrigan.

"I could do all that I've said, but why should I waste you on a prison
when there's a chance that I can use for myself? Harrigan, will you
stand up to me, man to man, and fist to fist, fighting fair and square
without advantage, and then if I thrash you, will you be my man? If I
beat you, will you swear to follow me, to do my bidding? Harrigan, if I
have you to work for me--I'll be king of the south seas!"