On this framework, between the cylinders, canvas was stretched, and on this the passengers were to sit.

Of course it would be impossible to sink a thing like this.
In a very short time, the raft was lifted to the side of the vessel and pushed overboard.

It was bound to come right side up.

And as soon as it was afloat, the men began to drop down on it.

The captain had hold of a line that was fastened to it, and I think one of the mates had another line.
"Get down! Get down!" cried the captain to us.
I told Rectus to jump first, as the vessel rolled that way, and he landed all right, and stood up as well as he could to catch Corny.