The scene was terrible.

Jynxstrop the negro went raving mad.

Curtis and several of the men tried their utmost to control him, but in spite of everything he broke loose, and tore up and down the raft, uttering fearful yells.

He had gained possession of a handspike, and rushed upon us all with the ferocity of an infuriated tiger; how we contrived to escape mischief from his attacks, I know not.

All at once, by one of those unaccountable impulses of madness, his rage turned against himself.