They gained no further, for the schooners fell into their wake as soon as they were able to do so, thus robbing them of some of their wind.

The Osprey, having the inside station, kept straight on, and came up with the cutters as they were abreast of the end of the island.

All were travelling very fast through the water.
"We shall be first round the Nab, sir," Hawkins said in delight.
"The schooners are smothering the cutters, but they are not hurting us." "Give her plenty of room when we get there," Frank said.
The skipper nodded.

"I won't risk a foul, sir, you may be sure." The three ladies on board the Phantom were seated on footstools under the weather bulwark--although as yet the yachts were travelling on an almost even keel.

Miss Haverley and Lady Olive uttered exclamations of satisfaction as the Phantom slowly drew ahead of the others, and were loud in their disgust as they saw the effect of the schooner's sail behind them on their own speed.
"I don't call it fair," the former said; "if a vessel cannot sail well herself, that she should be allowed to damage the chances of others.