est. Such was the case
with Captain Baker. Although he could not conceal from himself that
their condition was almost hopeless, he continued with his voice to
encourage the timid, and by his arm to support the weak.

By degrees the fog had partially dispersed, and as the dawn began to
break, a dreary prospect was displayed. The haggard countenances and
lacerated limbs of the men told the sufferings they had endured,
whilst the breakers, which they had only heard before, became
distinctly visible. Still the devoted crew, following the example of
their commander, uttered no complaint. They were ready to meet death,
yet they felt it hard to die without a struggle. The tide was rising
rapidly, and if anything was to be done, it must be done instantly.
The boatswain, who had never lost hold of the rope, determined at all
hazards to make another effort to save his comrades, or to perish in
the attempt.

Having caused one end of the rope to be made fast round his body, and
committing himself to the protection of the Almighty, he plunged into
the sea, and struck out in the direction of the opposite shore.

It was an awful moment to those who were left behind; and in
breathless suspense they waited the result of the daring attempt. All
depended upon the strength of his arm. At one moment he was seen
rising on the crest of the wave, at the next he disappeared in the
trough of the sea; but in spite of the raging surf, and of every other
obstacle, he reached the shore, and an inspiring cheer announced his
safety to his comrades.

As soon as he had recovered his breath and strength, he went to the
nearest point opposite the rock, and, watching his opportunity, he
cast one end of the line across to his companions. Fortunately it
reached the rock, and was gladly seized, but it proved to be only long
enough to allow of one man holding it on the shore, and another on the
rock, at arm's length. It may be imagined with what joy this slender
means of deliverance was welcomed by all. The tide had made rapid
advances; the waves, as if impatient for their prey, threw the white
surf aloft, and dashed over the rock.

Would that we could do justice to the noble courage and conduct
displayed by the crew of the Drake. Instead of rushing to the rope, as
many would have done under similar circumstances, not a man moved
until he was commanded to do so by Captain Baker. Had the slightest
hesitation appeared on the part of the commander, or any w