Thousands of people crowded the banks in the vicinity of the pescaia and they gave Boyton up as lost.

Men turned pale and women fainted.

Now and again they could see an arm protruding from the dark, angry waters; then a leg and an end of his paddle which he had the presence of mind to retain.

It was impossible to get a rope to him and certain death to attempt a rescue with a boat.
"Only God can save him now," yelled some excited Italian, "no man can do it." The multitude felt there was nothing to be done but to stand helplessly by and watch him drown.

And what were Boyton's thoughts?
He stated afterwards: "I thought of it being Christmas eve.