``Spencer, if there is guilt, if you do not deny your own, how is it possible for Cromwell to be innocent? He was your constant companion.''

The hazel eyes met Alexander's. ``I tell you he is innocent.''

``And do you think there is a reason why I should accept your word?''

``Yes. I have nothing to gain by defending Cromwell.''

``Nothing to lose, either, Spencer.''

``That's true,'' Spencer agreed and withdrew himself from the conversation. His eyes went back to contemplation of the sea.

``I am innocent, Captain,'' Cromwell said again. ``Before God, Captain, I am innocent.''

And though it was logical that a man who could plot mass murder would not hesitate to speak an untruth, still it was difficult to understand why Spencer spoke only for Cromwell. The boatswain was as guilty as any. No action of his could be interpreted in his favor and four midshipmen, prior to their knowing the significance of the Greek paper, had seen it in Cromwell's hands while Spencer whispered explanations.

``I thought,'' Midshipman Rogers had told Alexander, ``that Spencer was teaching him geometry.''

It was fantastic to turn from the seven men in shackles to the wardroom, where a class of apprentices awaited him. This was a training ship and the training would continue, but there was an element of frightful absurdity here which Alexander recognized. Some of these apprentices were, in physical strength, already men and doubtless a percentage of them were Spencer's followers.