“There is the distinguished nigger,” he continued, “who ought to do your work; let him fetch life belts; I have got mine on.”
The latter took the hint and went for the belts, returning with a full supply.
Each one took the precaution of using a belt in case of an accident.
If the ship were to founder, they would not sink, but float on the sea.
That would give them a chance of being picked up.
It is well known that sailors have clung for hours to a spar or a hen coop.
“Ship coming nearer, sahib,” he cried. “Hear the beat-beat of the engines closer than ebber before.”
“Me fire pistol shot, but it do no good at all.”
Hearing this, Harry ordered Clara, Mole and Monday to follow him to the deck.
There was a white mist which made everything impenetrable at a few yards’ distance.
“God help us,” she murmured. “Shall I ever see Jack again?”
“Yes, yes, of course you will,” replied Harry, trying to comfort her.
This was rather a difficult feat to accomplish under the circumstances.
“Not in this world, I fear,” she said, tearfully.
Without any warning a dark form burst upon them.
The Arab sailors who had gathered forward were dreadfully alarmed.
They were in that moment of peril fearfully afraid of the imminence of being run down.
Others threw themselves on the deck, resigning themselves to their fate.
This was done with the passivity of Orientals.
To them it was merely Kismet--fate--what will be must be--the inevitable, against which it was useless to struggle for a moment.
A large ocean steamer was crowding down upon them.
Harry Girdwood, Mole, Monday and Clara were precipitated into the water.
He had been struck by a splinter which broke one of his arms.
As quickly as possible the steamer stopped and lowered boats.
She was not injured, but the concussion was felt.
The captain knew that there had been an accident.
It was his duty to save all the lives he could.
Three sailors were rescued with Girdwood and the rest of his party.
They were taken on board half drowned and promptly attended to.
Harry went into the captain’s cabin and gave his card.
“I am sorry this accident should have happened, Mr. Girdwood,” said the captain, “but in such weather what can you expect!”
“How can I blame you?” replied Harry. “The fog is as thick as mud.”