won't increase," said Stephen, who having
thus far succeeded in escaping from his enemies, was not inclined to
despair. His brother and Simon were more out of spirits about the
matter. Still it seemed probable that the gale would increase; not a
break appeared in the clouds. As long as the provisions lasted, and the
boat could keep above water, Stephen determined to remain at sea. The
boat, however, was leaking considerably, and the provisions were
becoming exhausted, so that even should the gale moderate they could
scarcely hope to reach a Dutch port before their food would have come to
an end. All day long the little vessel lay tossing about. They spoke
little, though they had much to think about. Their thoughts were not
such as they could give expression to before others. Joe, who was
generally a cheery old fellow, sat looking glum and downcast.

"It is all very well for you to say you won't go back, but if we don't,
as I said before, we shall go to the bottom."

Still Stephen was determined to attempt to get on as soon as the gale
had abated. He knew that it was as dangerous to run before the seas,
when there would be a great probability of being pooped, as to remain
hove-to. That they had been drifting down channel he was aware. How
far they had got it was difficult to say. To attempt to make the land
they might fail to enter any sheltering harbour, and might be cast on
some rocky shore, where the vessel would be lost. Stephen argued the
point with old Joe.

"Well," replied the latter, "you must be answerable for whatever
happens. Remember, if the craft goes down it is your fault, not mine."

Stephen was half inclined to smile at what Joe said, and willingly
undertook to be responsible for whatever should occur, and going to the
pump, set to work to encourage his companions. Thus they continued
tumbling and tossing about as they had been doing for many hours. At
length, overcome with fatigue, Stephen lay down in the cuddy, hoping to
snatch a short rest. How long he had been asleep he could not tell,
when he was awakened by a loud crash. Starting up, he saw to his dismay
that the mast had gone by the board. Old Joe was equal to the
emergency. "Get out the oars, lads, and we will try and keep the
craft's head to wind, while I cut away the wreck. It is our only
chance, for if she is brought broadside to the sea, she will fill in an
instant and go down."

Tom Peddler, accustomed to obey old Jo