Were it not for Hozier's foresight she would have been drifting with the Gulf Stream four hours after leaving the island.

As it was, unless they received a fresh supply of fuel from another ship, they must unquestionably take the straightest line to the mainland.
During the day they had sighted three vessels, but at such distances that signaling was useless, each being hull down on their limited horizon.

Moreover, they had to be cautious.

The cruiser, trusting to her speed, might try a long cast north and south of the launch's supposed path.

She alone, among passing ships, would be scouring the sea with incessant vigilance, and it behooved them, now as ever, not to attract her attention.