On the south side of this rocky
point there is forty fathoms water close to the shore, and good
anchorage-ground."
"Then I wish we could jump over the thundering island, and drop on the
lee side of it; but, as we can't, what's the use?"
"We may be able to round the point."
"There will be an awful sea running off that point, sir."
"Of course there will. I mean to try it, for all that."
"So be it, sir; that is what I like to hear. I hate palaver. Let one
give his orders, and the rest obey them. We are not above half a mile
from it now."
"You had better wake the landsman. We must have a third hand for
this."
"No," said a woman's voice, sweet, but clear and unwavering. "I shall
be the third hand."
"Curse it," cried David, "she has heard us."
"Every word. And I have no confidence in Mr. Talboys; and, believe me,
I am more to be trusted than he is. See, my cowardice is all worn out.
Do but trust me, and you shall find I want neither courage nor
intelligence."
David eyed her keenly, and full in the face. She met his glance
calmly, with her fine nostrils slightly expanding, and her compressed
lip curving proudly.
"It is all right, Jack. It is not a flash in the pan. She is as steady
as a rock." He then addressed her rapidly and business-like, but with
deference. "You will stand by the helm on this side, and the moment I
run forward, you will take the helm and hold it in this position. That
will require all your strength.
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