At any rate, we must hold on as we are, until the wind drops altogether." After sunset the breeze died away rapidly and, by the time night had fully set in, the sails dropped motionless, and the Swan ceased to move through the water.

The captain at once ordered all the boats to be lowered, and the men swarmed into them, double banking the oars.

Hawsers were handed into them, and the vessel's head swept round in the direction from which she had come, but somewhat farther seaward.
"Now, lads," the captain said, "pull with a will.

There will be a good supper, and an allowance of strong ale, when you come on board." After rowing for half an hour, the captain ordered them to cease, and to keep silence.

Listening attentively, he could hear in the still night air the sound of oars; but whether the boats were towing the ships, or rowing independently, he could not tell.