A mysterious perception of danger had cut short his repose.

He distinguished over his head the patter of quick runnings the whole length of the deck; he heard voices.

While dressing as quickly as possible he realized that the rudder was working violently, and that the vessel was changing its course.
Coming up on deck, one glance was sufficient to convince him that the ship was not running any danger.

Everything about it presented a normal aspect.

The sea, still dark, was gently lapping the sides of the vessel which continued going forward with regular motion.