It was certain that no man would do as we had done, save he were in as sore straits.
The black bow of the boat lifted on the waves close to us, and I swam to her and climbed in over her stern.

By this time the ship was too far off to be dangerous, unless it was thought worthwhile to come back to pick up the boat, which was unlikely, as it would have been done at once if at all.

Between us, the Saxon and I managed to get Dalfin into her, and then our new companion followed.

He wore a thrall's dress, and had not so much as a knife on him.

Yet one could see that he bore himself as might a thane, while his voice was not a thrall's voice.
Now a word or two passed as to whether we should step the mast and set sail at once, but it seemed safer not to do so.