There were signs of distress seaward. Through his night glasses Mr. Frazer reported seeing a steamer in trouble. She had evidently gone on the reef, having gotten out of her course in the wild storm, or else because the wreckers further down the coast had deceived her navigator by means of false beacons.
No matter, she was fast upon the treacherous reef and would likely fill and be a wreck before morning, since her entire port side seemed exposed to the fury of the waves.
It was a wonder how anything could remain on board and endure so terrific a pounding; if later on she were washed free the chances were there would be holes enough in her by that time to cause her to sink like a shot.
The lifeboat could not get out to her any too soon.
Those on board were burning lights, and sending up rocket after rocket to indicate that their need of assistance was great.
Still nothing could be done until the men on the detail came in.
Already it had been settled that unless assistance came speedily, in the shape of a recruit to take the place of Tom, Darry would have to go.
The boy was in a fever of suspense, fearful that he might be cheated out of the experience, as on the previous occasion.
Paul was quite useless because he knew so little about pulling an oar, while as a sailor, with some years experience on a vessel, Darry was at home on the water in any capacity.
"I certainly admire your grit, Darry," said Paul, shuddering as he looked out at the heaving waves, the white tops of which loomed up in the gloom.
"Oh! I'm used to these things. Dozens of storms I've been through, under all sorts of conditions," answered the boy.
"All the same it's a big risk. I hope nothing will go wrong. That's a mighty small boat to pit against the fury of the sea."
"But as safe as they make them. It's impossible to sink it, and the ropes are there to keep us from being swept out, even if flooded. All around the outside you see ropes, and if a fellow goes over he holds on to one of those until another wave sweeps him back in his seat again, and there you are."
Although Darry spoke so lightly it must not be assumed that he failed to realize the gravity attending the passage of the surboat out upon such a troubled sea; for accidents do happen to the crews of these life-saving craft, and many a daring soul has gone to his account while trying to rescue others.