heltered spots where they had thrown
themselves down to rest, came to relieve those who had been working for
the last hour. Thus two days went by, but the storm abated not; no land
was in sight; few indeed on board knew whither they were driving; all
they could do was to labour on, and then to lie down in order to gain
fresh strength for renewed labours. Sometimes the wind came from the
north; then shifted to the north-east, often in an instant veering two
or three points, and almost half round the compass. The brave admiral
did his best to steer west by south, but that was no easy matter. In
spite of all on board, as the water was still increasing, he gave orders
to lighten the ship by throwing overboard numerous casks of beer, oil,
cider and wine, which to those who loved their liquor was sadly trying;
but just then life to them was dearer than aught else. The hold being
filled, scarcely any fresh water or beer could be got at, nor could a
fire be lighted in the cook-room to dress their meat. Thus, thirsty and
famished, the crew had to toil from day to day, while such refreshment
as sleep could have afforded was well-nigh denied them.

All this time three pumps were kept working, and not for a moment did
they cease baling out with their buckets, barricoes, and kettles.
Still, notwithstanding their utmost exertions, the ship had now ten feet
of water in her hold, and had they for a single watch ceased to pump,
she must have foundered. At length the admiral gave the order to heave
overboard the guns; it was a desperate remedy, for should the ship
survive the gale and an enemy be met with, she must helplessly yield; a
greater trial to her brave crew than any they had encountered. One
after one, the tackles cast off, the guns were sent plunging into the
ocean. Relieved of their weight, the ship floated somewhat more
buoyantly.

"We have done our best," exclaimed the brave admiral. "One more
resource remains to us, we must cut away the masts."

All knew that this was indeed a desperate remedy, for the huge ship
would thus float a mere log on the water, waiting if, by God's good
providence, some other vessel might bear down to their relief. But of
that there was little prospect; still their lives might thus be
prolonged a few short hours, and true men know that it is their duty to
struggle to the last, and trust to God for their preservation.

All this time no observation had been taken, for neither was the su