This storm raged until the 9th of July, and on that day, Dirk Peters having manifested an intention of getting rid of the mate, Augustus Barnard readily assured him of his assistance, without, however, revealing the fact of Arthur Pym's presence on board.

Next day, one of the cook's adherents, a man named Rogers, died in convulsions, and, beyond all doubt, of poison.
Only four of the cook's party then remained, of these Dirk Peters was one.

The mate had five, and would probably end by carrying the day over the cook's party.
There was not an hour to lose.

The half-breed having informed Augustus Barnard that the moment for action had arrived, the latter told him the truth about Arthur Pym.
While the two were in consultation upon the means to be employed for regaining possession of the ship, a tempest was raging, and presently a gust of irresistible force struck the _Grampus_ and flung her upon her side, so that on righting herself she shipped a tremendous sea, and there was considerable confusion on board.

This offered a favourable opportunity for beginning the struggle, although the mutineers had made peace among themselves.