The wind continued too high to risk raising the sail with which each boat was provided, and it was slow progress with the oars.
The day was one of terror, for many times waves would break over the small craft, forcing the men to bail for their lives.

Only cold provisions could be eaten, but in spite of this the little band of shipwrecked men maintained a cheerful demeanor.

As for Bob he did not deny that he was frightened.

He thought with sorrow of his father and mother and wondered if he would ever see them again.
He and the others had removed their life-preservers, as they did not need them in the gig.
"That was a plucky thing you did, saving that boat from going down stern first," complimented the captain, a little later that day when they were talking over the events of the wreck.

"You showed good judgment, Bob." "Oh, I guess anybody would have done the same." "No, they wouldn't.