In Search of an Unknown Race — page 200: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

188 VAN. Fighting their way in squads to the rail, they flung themselves recklessly over the sides into the Paras boats, as well as two of those from the other steamer. Nothing more could be done, and as Captain Norris, who was among the last to leave, pushed his own way to the rail, Van saw Lord Bampton and Mr. Sutherland following. And then for the first ttme Van remembered that his remaining diamonds, as well as his stock of ready money, were in his traveling bag below. Two boats still remained along side, and Van, imagin- ing that they would not push off till assured that the last person had left the doomed steamer, darted down the companionway. But the saloon lights were extinguished, and it was only by remembering the location of his stateroom that he was able to find the door. To his dismay he found he could not open it. In vain Van kicked and pushed—it only yielded an inch or two, while through the aperture poured a vol- ume of water that nearly swept him from his feet. ‘‘My life is of more value than the money!” mut- tered Van, as the steamer’s increased heeling showed that the danger of being carried down in her was im- minent. Abandoning his attempt he groped his way back to main staircase, and rapidly ascended. Hardly had he reached the deck, when with a heavy lurch the Para rolled her wounded side under and began settling rap- idly by the head. Van had barely time to cut loose a circular life buoy, thrust his head and shoulders through it, and fling himself over the weather rail. GOMIiGchooks (E(0)