In an instant a frightful sea uprose.

The breaking waves, foaming along all their crests, swept with their full weight over the "Terror." If I had not been wedged solidly against the rail, I should have been swept overboard! There was but one thing to do--to change our machine again into a submarine.

It would find security and calm at a few dozen feet beneath the surface.

To continue to brave the fury of this outrageous sea was impossible.
Robur himself was on deck, and I awaited the order to return to my cabin--an order which was not given.

There was not even any preparation for the plunge.