human
All the force of the powder went upwards, as it usually does. If it had been dynamite, the explosion would have struck down, driving out the bottom, and then of course the ship would have sunk.
gpt
But the fire!
human
Oh, the fire, he said coolly.
gpt
We must fight that. It is dangerous, but the explosive spirit has burned out, or been destroyed; the powder has gone, and we have nothing to fear now but the slow working of our friend or enemy, whichever you make it.
human
But it may burst out furiously at any moment.
gpt
It may, my lad, but I hardly think it possible. Of course a great deal of the cargo is highly combustible, but things will not burn quickly without room and plenty of air. Fire shut in only smoulders, and eats its way slowly, as you see it there. Come, I think we may hail the boat, and get our friends on board.
human
But do you think it will be safe?
gpt
Safer than leaving them in an open boat.
human
But the mast--the main-mast? Suppose the fire has eaten its way through that?
gpt
If it had the mast would fall; but the fire has worked forward, and, as far as I can see, the mast is untouched. Run up to the main-top, it is clear now. Have a look round, to see if you can make out the two boats with our friends.
human
Not afraid that the main-mast will give way with your weight, are you?