"It is high water, and spring tide, moreover.

There will be water enough for our light draught.
Get Gerda forward, for the sea will break over the stern the moment we touch the ground." I looked at him, and he nodded and smiled.
"It will be nothing," he said, knowing what I meant.

"One is sheltered here under this high stern.

I shall take no harm.

Nay, I am ship master, and I bid you care for the lady.