On examining our chart of soundings we found the depth of the ocean gradually increasing up to about four hundred fathoms, and then the chart showed a sudden and great increase to seventeen hundred fathoms, and then a further increase to two thousand and fifty, nearly the greatest depth with which we should meet in the whole distance.

We had, therefore, to watch the effect of this additional depth upon the straining of the cable.

At two in the morning the effect showed itself in a greater strain and a more rapid tendency to run fast.

We could check its speed, but it is a dangerous process.

_Too sudden a check would inevitably snap the cable_.