Somehow the thing was done.
The gong signaled _Half-speed_, the rhythmic clash of engines began, and Lister felt _Terrier_ tremble as she tightened the rope.

Brown had played his part and Lister's had begun.

He wondered whether they could keep the water out of the engine-room.

They had drifted off-shore, and now they had opened up the channel the combers leaped on board.

The seas were not regular; they ran in short, steep ridges, and gave the tug no time to lift.