"Easily drop down to fust boat when they're going to shove off," said Jeffs, to the Captain.
Meanwhile all possible had been done, and with the swell, heavier as they neared the coast, the "Flash" tore on through the dense white mist, till the sound of breakers ahead, warned the Captain, that speed must be slackened, and the vessel's course a little changed; but, it was impossible to tell exactly where they were, for nothing was visible a dozen yards from the bows.

Hardly had the course been changed, and the second officer despatched to see whether the vessel would keep afloat till the fog lifted, than there was a dull grinding sound, then a bump, a slow onward motion, and then those on board, were nearly taken off their feet by the sudden stoppage.
The "Flash" was fast on the rocks, and a wave struck her, came on board, and swept the deck.
Captain Trevor turned to look at the coxswain, who was standing making a piece of lead-line fast about the boy's waist, and gave the officer a nod.

Then the orders were given, the first boat was manned, and Tom Jeffs looked at Captain Trevor for orders.
"Next boat," he said, and as the first was lowered, and floated off in safety, the second was filled, and once more the coxswain looked for his orders.

"Wait for the other," said the Captain, who was afraid to let his son go in the crowd which filled the second.
He gave the order, and waiting their opportunity, without any hurry, the second lieutenant contrived to lower this boat, so that, when the next wave came, she floated away into the thick mist.
The first lieutenant now saw to the manning of the last boat, and for the third time the coxswain looked in his Captain's face for his orders, but still they did not come.
The Captain glanced round, but there was nothing, save the breaking waves sweeping over the deck, and the fog shutting all in.
"Quick, sir, please," shouted the first lieutenant.
"Yes, go now, Jeffs," said the Captain hoarsely, and he bent down and kissed his boy.
"After you, sir," said the coxswain.
"Go, sir, instantly!" roared the Captain.
"What! and leave you here ?" cried the man.

"Not me.