The work must be carried on perfectly noiselessly, the men relieving each other every few minutes.
"When the planks are cut through, replace them in their former positions, and wedge some small pieces of wood in, so that there shall be no chance of their falling.

You ought to finish the work by tomorrow.

When you have done it, take no farther step until you get orders from me.

It would not do to rise now, for we may be surrounded by other ships, and if we overpowered the crew, we should at once be attacked and recaptured by them.

You will, therefore, remain quiet until you have orders, whether it be one day or ten.