Outside lay a fringe of rocks heavily beaten by the surf but with a narrow channel showing as a break in the foaming water.

I decided that we must face the hazards of this unattractive landing-place.

Two days and nights without drink or hot food had played havoc with most of the men, and we could not assume that any safer haven lay within our reach.

The 'Stancomb Wills' was the lighter and handier boat--and I called her alongside with the intention of taking her through the gap first and ascertaining the possibilities of a landing before the 'James Caird' made the venture.

I was just climbing into the 'Stancomb Wills' when I saw the 'Dudley Docker' coming up astern under sail.