Stefan nodded again, then wrapped a length of chain around the pipe. He whistled sharply. A head appeared in the hatch far above. The rope was lowered for them to fasten to the chain. A minute later the pipe lifted off the floor and up to the deck.

"Thanks," Pentam said to Stefan. "You go back up on deck. I'm going see if I can't lend a hand in the engine room." He rolled up his sleeves and went to the other room.

"Anything I can do to help?"

Within minutes he was black ...