The torments of famine are all forgotten: our thoughts are concentrated with fevered expectation upon the longed-for moment when Curtis shall dole out the scanty measure of lukewarm water that makes up our ration.

O for one good draught, even if it should exhaust the whole supply! At least, it seems as if we then could die in peace! About noon we were startled by sharp cries of agony, and looking round I saw Owen writhing in the most horrible convulsions.

I went towards him, for, detestable as his conduct had been, common humanity prompted me to see whether I could afford him any relief.

But before I reached him, a shout from Flaypole arrested my attention.
The man was up in the mast, and with great excitement pointing to the east.
"A ship! A ship!" he cried.
In an instant all were on their feet.

Even Owen stopped his cries and stood erect.