His first task was to examine her cabins, which were free from water. In the forecastle he found everything in disorder, as if the vessel had been abandoned in a hurry and without sufficient cause. Probably the ship was overwhelmed by the fury of the storm in the dead of night, and the crew, seized with a panic, had lowered the boats. Her figure-head had been washed away and the name on her stern was not decipherable. Bambino could only make out the letters, "v--r--e--a--n--d--ris." Going aft, he descended the companion-ladder, and entered the captain's cabin, where the same indications of haste were noticeable as in the forecastle. Everything had been thrown about in reckless confusion, and many articles of value were piled up, as if to be carried away. In various lockers he found provisions in plenty, unharmed by the saltwater. Cans of meats, sardines, biscuits and fruits, as well as bottles of wine, brandy and beer. His spirits rose at this timely discovery, and his elation increased as he reflected that the ship would keep afloat for some time, unless engulfed by another storm, of which there was no indication at present. Sitting down, he placed on the table of the cabin an excellent repast, of which he partook with a good appetite, washing it down with copious draughts of wine. His satisfaction culminated when he found a box of fine cigars, which he promptly began to smoke, a box of matches affording him all the light he wanted. While he was congratulating himself upon his good luck, he heard a peculiar sound. This came from what appeared to be an inner cabin, the door of which was locked. The sound resembled the moaning of some human being in deep anguish. Somewhat superstitious, Bambino crossed himself and muttered a prayer. Again the sound was repeated. Bambino's hair began to erect itself, and he advanced to the partition, inclining his head in a listening position. CHAPTER VII. THE MYSTERY OF THE DESERTED VESSEL. After listening at the partition for some time Bambino became convinced that a human being was confined in an inner cabin. Frequently he heard sobs and groans mingled with exclamations in the French language, with which he was well acquainted. A further examination showed him a door, against which several pieces of furniture were jammed, they having evidently been thrown against it during the progress of the storm. This had effectually prevented the egress of the unfortunate person inside. Being a powerful man, the Italian exerted himself to the utmost and succeeded in removing a bureau, some chairs and a heavy table which were piled up in confusion. Then the door flew open, and he beheld a lady lying on a bed, and it was easily observable that she was in a state of complete exhaustion, having been many days without food. Had not help come when it did, she could not have survived much longer.