The mist of fog slowly rose, and drifted away, leaving a wide view of ocean, but revealed no glimpse of any other craft.

The white-crested waves gleamed in the sun, as we plowed bravely through them, and the wind steadily decreased in violence.

I had the crew shake out reefs in jib and foresail, and was surprised myself at the sailing qualities of the bark.

In spite of breadth of beam, and heavy top-hamper, she possessed speed and ease of control, and must have been a pretty sight, as we bowled along through that deserted sea.

Before my watch was up I could see Gunsaules through the skylight busily preparing the table in the cabin below.