I ran to the companion-way, when I saw a ship athwart our bows.

At that moment our foremast went by the board, carrying with it our main topmast.

In an instant the two vessels separated, and we were left a perfect wreck.

The ship showed a light for a few moments and then disappeared, leaving us to our fate.

When we came to examine our situation, we found our bowsprit gone close to the knight-heads." An investigation showed that the collision had left the "Industry" in a grievous state, while the gale, ever increasing, blew directly on shore.