at a pinch.

Besides the "davits," the following supports are provided Two small
cranes are swung under the keel, on which the latter rests,
preventing the settling of the boat's middle, while hanging suspended
by the bow and stern. A broad, braided, hempen band, usually worked
in a tasteful pattern, is also passed round both gunwales; and
secured to the ship's bulwarks, firmly lashes the craft to its place.
Being elevated above the ship's rail, the boats are in plain sight
from all parts of the deck.

Now, one of these boats was to be made way with. No facile
matter, truly. Harder than for any dashing young Janizary to run off
with a sultana from the Grand Turk's seraglio. Still, the thing could
be done, for, by Jove, it had been.

What say you to slyly loosing every thing by day; and when night
comes, cast off the band and swing in the cranes? But how lower the
tackles, even in the darkest night, without a creaking more fearful
than the death rattle? Easily avoided. Anoint the ropes, and they
will travel deftly through the subtle windings of the blocks.

But though I had heard of this plan being pursued, there was a degree
of risk in it, after all, which I was far from fancying. Another plan
was hit upon; still bolder; and hence more safe. What it was, in the
right place will be seen.

In selecting my craft for this good voyage, I would fain have
traversed the deck, and eyed the boats like a cornet choosing his
steed from out a goodly stud. But this was denied me. And the "bow
boat" was, perforce, singled out, as the most remote from the
quarter-deck, that region of sharp eyes and relentless purposes.

Then, our larder was to be thought of; also, an abundant supply of
water; concerning which last I determined to take good heed. There
were but two to be taken care of; but I resolved to lay in sufficient
store of both meat and drink for four; at the same time that the
supplemental twain thus provided for were but imaginary. And if it
came to the last dead pinch, of which we had no fear, however, I was
food for no man but Jarl.

Little time was lost in catering for our mess. Biscuit and salt beef
were our sole resource; and, thanks to the generosity of the
Areturion's owners, our ship's company had a plentiful supply. Casks
of both, with heads knocked out, were at the service of all. In bags
which we made for the purpose, a sufficiency of the biscuit was
readily stored away, and secreted in a corner of easy acce