All hope from their assistance was lost; but I was consoled by observing that the water did not enter the ship above a certain height.

The stern, under which lay the cabin which contained all that was dear to me on earth, was immovably fixed between two rocks.

At the same time I observed, towards the south, traces of land, which, though wild and barren, was now the haven of my almost expiring hopes; no longer being able to depend on any human aid.
I returned to my family, and endeavoured to appear calm.

"Take courage," cried I, "there is yet hope for us; the vessel, in striking between the rocks, is fixed in a position which protects our cabin above the water, and if the wind should settle to-morrow, we may possibly reach the land." This assurance calmed my children, and as usual, they depended on all I told them; they rejoiced that the heaving of the vessel had ceased, as, while it lasted, they were continually thrown against each other.

My wife, more accustomed to read my countenance, discovered my uneasiness; and by a sign, I explained to her that I had lost all hope.