Then there seemed to be a fight in the water where he was, and with that I left the boat to herself.

There was a long, deep swell running, but it did not break, and I was maybe fourscore yards from him.

The boat would drift after me with the wind, and I swam to his help with all my might.

I could see him as the rollers lifted me on their crests now and then, and round him the white water flew as he struggled with somewhat.

At that time I saw the tall figure of Asbiorn on the fast-lessening stern of the ship, and with him was another man.