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 and rolling kept on. The steamer was motionless, except for her rocking in the chopping sea.

Gerald opened the door, holding both traveling-bags in one hand. "What is it?" he began as Philip drew the bolt and took one of the bags. "Is there any danger? They're making a great fuss outside. What has happened?"

"I'm sorry, but I can't seem to find out yet. They will tell us soon though."

"I heard somebody say that a keg of powder exploded in the hold and blew up a lot of freight. May be it was that?"

"Yes, very likely. They're overturning things pretty generally down-stairs."

"But it's not the steam?"

"No, it's not the steam. We'll have to wait till the ship's people can explain what it is. Most likely nothing much."

"Aren't the passengers frightened?"

"Some are, I think, and some not. There's no need of being so till we're hurt. One or two ladies fainted, and so on."

"Are you afraid yourself?"

"Not till I know what we've got to be afraid of."