The course of the chase continued to bring her nearer to the reefs.
"Ring one bell!" shouted the captain to the quartermaster at the wheel.
The effect of one bell was to reduce the speed of the Snapper by one-half.

The order to put the helm hard a starboard followed in a short time.

The course was made about south, and the steamer went ahead slowly.

Two men in the chains were heaving the lead constantly.

They were reporting four and five fathoms.