But I was obliged to go on my hands and knees, such was the force of the wind.

Passing the mate's cabin, I heard sounds that made me listen acutely; and I then found the blows were being struck inside the ship.

I got to the captain and told him.

'Oh,' said he, 'ten to one it's the mate nailing down his chests, or the like.' But I assured him the blows struck the side of the ship, and, at my earnest request, he came out and listened.

He swore a great oath, and said the lubber would be through the ship's side.