The first mate, as it appeared, was in the cabin shaving himself, previous to his going on shore to the owner to report the supposed loss of his superior.

The sailors were either busy or down below, so that no notice was taken of the boat coming alongside; and Newton, with the master, were both on deck before the circumstance was known to the first mate.

It so happened, that at the very same moment that they came on board, the first mate was ascending the companion hatch, to order a boat to be lowered down and manned.

When he perceived Mr Berecroft, he fell back with astonishment, and turned pale.
"I thought you were gone," said he: "why, what could have saved you?
did you not drift out to sea ?" "It appears, then, Mr Jackson, that you knew that I was adrift," replied the master, seriously, looking him steadfastly in the face.
"That is,"-- replied the mate, confused--"I thought--of course, seeing the boat was not alongside--that you had drifted away in her: how it happened--of course, I know not." "I should trust, for your conscience' sake, Mr Jackson, that you did not; however, here I am again, as you see, by the blessing of Providence, and the exertions of this young man, whom I must introduce to you as our second mate." Jackson cast an angry glance at Newton upon the conclusion of this speech.

The master had truly observed that it was strange the first mate did not hear him when he had hailed the brig for assistance.