So for a little while we held on, until it was plain that the ten oars must needs wear down our four, and then we stepped the mast and made sail, at least holding our own under it and the oars.

The northeast breeze was helping us, though we must sail close-hauled, and my only fear was lest the pursuers should do the same.

But they had no sail with them.
Now we held on thus for a matter of two miles, and neither of the boats seemed to gain much on the other.

It began to come into my mind that we should win after all, if only we did not tire too soon.

They had two fresh men, who could take their turn presently.
And then it came across me that even if we ran ashore before they reached us, we should hardly have time to get away before they, too, were on the beach.