So unnerved was I by the thought of impending violence to Leach and Johnson that my reason must have left me.

I know that I slipped down into the steerage in a daze, and that I was just beginning the ascent to the deck, a loaded shot-gun in my hands, when I heard the startled cry: "There's five men in that boat!" I supported myself in the companion-way, weak and trembling, while the observation was being verified by the remarks of the rest of the men.
Then my knees gave from under me and I sank down, myself again, but overcome by shock at knowledge of what I had so nearly done.

Also, I was very thankful as I put the gun away and slipped back on deck.
No one had remarked my absence.

The boat was near enough for us to make out that it was larger than any sealing boat and built on different lines.

As we drew closer, the sail was taken in and the mast unstepped.
Oars were shipped, and its occupants waited for us to heave to and take them aboard.
Smoke, who had descended to the deck and was now standing by my side, began to chuckle in a significant way.