It was impossible to exchange a word.

The rain was not very heavy, but the wind was terrific.
However, one circumstance favored the seaman and his two companions.

The wind being southeast, consequently blew on their backs.

The clouds of sand, which otherwise would have been insupportable, from being received behind, did not in consequence impede their progress.

In short, they sometimes went faster than they liked, and had some difficulty in keeping their feet; but hope gave them strength, for it was not at random that they made their way along the shore.