Yet I knew with certainty the ship was there, had sufficient time in which to mark its position accurately, and rejoiced at the increase of darkness to conceal my approach.

Guided by this memory I waded straight out through the lines of surf, until all excepting the head became completely submerged.

If I was to reach the bark at all, this was the one opportunity.
I stood there, resisting the undertow tugging at my limbs, and barely able to retain my footing, intent upon my purpose.

Full strength had come back to my muscles, and my head was again clear.

The imminent sense of danger seemed to bring me a feeling of happiness, of new confidence in myself.