But break nothing, Hercules." "I shall try," replied the colossus, without being willing to promise more.
This second operation was quite easy.

The main-boom sheet-rope having been let go gently, the brigantine took the wind more regularly, and added its powerful action to that of the forward sails.
The fore-staff was then set above the brigantine, and, as it is simply brailed up, there was nothing to do but bear on the rope, to haul aboard, then to secure it.

But Hercules pulled so hard, along with his friend Acteon, without counting little Jack, who had joined them, that the rope broke off.
All three fell backwards--happily, without hurting themselves.

Jack was enchanted.
"That's nothing! that's nothing!" cried the novice.

"Fasten the two ends together for this time and hoist softly!" That was done under Dick Sand's eyes, while he had not yet left the helm.