She was sluggish, embarrassed by the load she hauled.
Lister thought about the men on board the hulk.

Two, buffeted by wind and spray, must hold the wheel on the short quarter-deck that lifted them above the shelter of the bulwarks.

Forward of this, the water rolled about, washing on board and pouring out.

The men could not for a moment slack their watchfulness.

Sweating and straining at the spokes, they must hold her straight.