The oscillation from the rolling and pitching of the ship, very much increased by the length of the lever, the flapping of the sails under a stiff breeze, have often sent a man overboard.

It was then a truly dangerous operation for Tom and his companions.
Very fortunately, the wind was moderate.

The sea had not yet had time to become rough.

The rolling and pitching kept within bounds.
When Dick Sand, at Captain Hull's signal, had steered toward the scene of the catastrophe, the "Pilgrim" only carried her jibs, her brigantine, her foresail, and her top-sail.

To get the ship under way as quickly as possible, the novice had only to make use of, that is, to counter-brace, the foresail.