Far above, barely visible through a floating veil of haze, I was able to detect the faint gleam of stars, and was sailor enough to determine through their guidance some certainty as to the points of compass; yet possessed no means by which to ascertain the time of night, or the position of the boat.
With this handicap it was clearly impossible for me to attempt any return to the wharf through the impenetrable black curtain which shut me in.

What then could I do?
What might I still hope to accomplish?
At first thought the case appeared hopeless.

Those fellows had swept the sloop clean, and had doubtless long ago scuttled it.

This ruthless deed once accomplished, their orders were to raid the house on the bluff.

But would they go on with their bloody work?
They would suddenly find themselves leaderless, unguided.