By that means, without leaving his chamber, he could always know if the route given was exactly followed, if the man at the helm, from ignorance or negligence, allowed the ship to make too great lurches.
Besides, there is no ship employed in long voyages which does not possess at least two compasses, as she has two chronometers.

It is necessary to compare these instruments with each other, and, consequently, control their indications.
The "Pilgrim" was then sufficiently provided for in that respect, and Dick Sand charged his men to take the greatest care of the two compasses, which were so necessary to him.
Now, unfortunately, during the night of the 12th to the 13th of February, while the novice was on watch, and holding the wheel of the helm, a sad accident took place.

The inverted compass, which was fastened by a copper ferule to the woodwork of the cabin, broke off and fell on the floor.

It was not seen till the next day.
How had the ferule come to break.

It was inexplicable enough.