ain, sir," said Cross, "I can only say God bless you,
and I hope that, if we do not meet again in this world, we shall in
heaven, or as near to it as possible. Good-bye, sir."

"Good-bye, Cross," replied I, shaking him by the hand; "we'll do our
duty, at all events. So now for my last dying speech."

Cross quitted the cabin, and I followed him. As soon as I was on deck,
I desired the first lieutenant to turn the hands up, and send them aft.
When they were all assembled, with Cross at their head, I stood on one
of the carronades and said: "My lads, I have sent for you, because I
consider that, although the gale is evidently breaking, we are shoaling
our water so fast, that we are in danger of going on shore before the
gale does break. Now, what I intend to do, as our best chance, is to
cut away the masts, and anchor as soon as we are in six fathoms water;
perhaps we may then ride it out. At all events, we must do our best,
and put our trust in Providence. But, my lads, you must be aware, that
in times of difficulty it is important that we should be all cool and
collected, that you must adhere to your discipline, and obey your
officers to the last; if you do not, everything will go wrong instead of
right. You have proved yourselves an excellent set of men, and I'm sure
you will continue so to do. It is possible we may not have to cut away
our masts, or to anchor; still, we must make every preparation in case
it is necessary, and I have, therefore, sent for you, to explain my
intentions, and to request that you will all assist me to the best of
your abilities; and I feel convinced that you will, and will do your
duty like British seamen. That's all I have to say, my lads. Pipe
down, Mr Cross."

The ship's company went forward in silence. They perceived the full
extent of the danger. The first lieutenant and boatswain employed a
portion in backing the best bower anchor with the sheet; the others
roued up the cables from the tiers, and coiled them on the main-deck,
clear for running. All hands were busily employed, and employment made
them forget their fears. The work was done silently, but orderly and
steadily. In the meantime we had shoaled to eight fathoms, and it was
now nearly three o'clock; but as it was summer time, the days were long.
Indeed, when the weather was fine, there was little or no night, and
the weather was warm, which was all in our favour.

When everything was reported ready, I went rou