I mind noting that many another such splinter had been taken from that stern post, and presently saw--for I lay on my back, helpless--that a flint arrowhead still showed itself through a new coat of paint.

It was too deeply bedded to be cut out, or else it was token of some honourable fight.

It at least had come from forward, whereas I thought that most of the chips had come from astern, as this new one did.

It is strange what little things one will notice when at one's wits' end.
The shouts ashore grew more faint, and at last were past.

The crew were very silent, but the oars swung steadily, and at last Thorleif came from the midship gangway and saw me.