When all was ready, I gave the signal of departure, my sons having been employed in the boat, and not observing my preparations.

I remained a moment to fire the match, and then hastily joined them with a beating heart, and proceeded to the shore.
As soon as we reached our harbour, I detached the raft, that I might return in the boat as soon as I heard the explosion.

We began actively to unload the boat, and while thus employed, a report like thunder was heard.

All trembled, and threw down their load in terror.
"What can it be ?" cried they.

"Perhaps a signal from some vessel in distress.