I saw the 'Dudley Docker' no more.

This separation caused me some anxiety during the remaining hours of the night.

A cross-sea was running and I could not feel sure that all was well with the missing boat.

The waves could not be seen in the darkness, though the direction and force of the wind could be felt, and under such conditions, in an open boat, disaster might overtake the most experienced navigator.

I flashed our compass-lamp on the sail in the hope that the signal would be visible on board the 'Dudley Docker', but could see no reply.