ADRIFT IN SMALL BOATS The scene was now one of wild excitement.

The sailors were working like Trojans to launch the boats, as it could not be told when the _Eagle_ would founder.

Already she was settling in the water.
For once Mr.Tarbill seemed too stunned to know what to do.

Bob made up his mind to save a few of his own possessions if he could, and he hurried to his berth.
"Put on a life-preserver, Bob," called the captain to him.

The boy thought of the time when this order had been given before, but not needed.