Oh dear, if we could only catch a hundred or two of these gulls, tie them to the boat with long strings, and make them fly as we want them, how capital it would be!" "Or bore a hole through a shark's tail, and reeve a rope through it, eh ?" remarked Jack.

"But, I say, it seems that my wish is going to be granted, for here comes a breeze.

Ship your oar, Peterkin.

Up with the mast, Ralph; I'll see to the sail.

Mind your helm; look out for squalls!" This last speech was caused by the sudden appearance of a dark blue line on the horizon, which, in an incredibly short space of time, swept down on us, lashing up the sea in white foam as it went.