He had not to fear either hesitation or distraction from Howik.
"Attention to the steering, Howik," said Captain Hull.

"We are going to try to surprise the jubarte.

We will only show ourselves when we are near enough to harpoon it." "That is understood, sir," replied the boatswain.
"I am going to follow the contour of these reddish waters, so as to keep to the leeward." "Good!" said Captain Hull.

"Boys, as little noise as possible in rowing." The oars, carefully muffled with straw, worked silently.

The boat, skilfully steered by the boatswain, had reached the large shoal of crustaceans.