Will you set the convicts to work ?" In a few minutes the clank of the pumps was heard.

Very irregularly were they worked, for it was next to impossible for the men to stand to them, with the vessel throwing herself about so wildly.
The captain had remained on deck.

He placed his hand on the shrouds of the main mast.

One moment they hung loosely; and then, as the vessel rolled over, tightened themselves, with a sudden jerk, till they were as stiff as iron rods.

He shook his head.
"Reuben, make your way up to the chief officer, and tell him that I am going to get rid of the main-top mast.