Then Bertric would have two reefs taken in, for we could not tell what weather we might meet, or for how long we might have to stay on board without help.

The foot of the sail was wet, as with heavy rain.
"We can take no chances," he said.

"Yet it is likely that we shall have a ship or two in chase of us shortly.

It is a wonder to me that we have seen none yet.

But word will go along the coast of what has happened.