Nothing either crew or officers could do would improve the situation, for in the ship's condition they were as helpless as children.

The lead was cast, and sixty fathoms called.

It was now evident that there was land close by.
But the trail of the line only showed the more clearly that the ship was at the mercy of some rapid and dangerous current, perhaps being drawn into some whirlpool.

Now the fog seemed to lift, and long lines of light were seen ahead, but it was only to be succeeded by greater darkness.
Then the sounds began to change and vary; and while what seemed voices were heard singing and sighing overhead, the deep rush and roll of waters below had a strange and bewildering effect on the feelings.

Now the moon seemed to be rising through the fog ahead, and a pale, white light gleamed for a few seconds, then disappeared, and all was dark again.