soon as possible. Naturally, the real mystery was not that the Light was out, but that there seemed to be no one on Eilean Mor present to tend the Beacon. His directions to the landing party were precise; Check the Lighthouse and the Living Quarters for any sign of the missing men. If they could not be located, the shore party was to return immediately to the Hesperus. There was to be no comprehensive search until after the Light was functioning again.

"Mr MacDonald," Jones began, "Is it true what they say, that they have all gone missing?"

The Second Mate sighed, and turned to the man who was next to him at the stern of the Launch. ''Lad," he replied, " You know just as much as I do.The Captain and Moore..." (He Gestured with his head to the man sitting at the Bow of the Launch), "...are pretty tight lipped about this whole thing. But I say this, the Captain is worried about what we may find, or maybe, what we do not find."

A half-hour later, Captain Harvie was in his cabin, located just off the bridge.

The Hesperus was anchored securely just off the coast of Eilean Mor, and the east -side landing was easily visible under the uncharacteristically cloudless sky.

There were actually two landing sites on the island, the other was located on the west-side of the island. However, the east-side landing was preferred because it offered shelter against the turbulent North Atlantic.

Harvie was seated at his desk, and was carefully studying a schedule