Dark masses of vapour flew overhead, torn and ragged.

The wild tumble of waves rose and fell, without order or regularity.
Forward, the bulwark on both bows had been carried away, and the deck was swept clear of every movable object.
One watch was below, the men of the other were for the most part gathered aft, and lashed to belaying pins.

Fairclough was standing near the wheel.

With some difficulty, Harry made his way to him.
"Not much change since last night," he said.

"I feel quite ashamed of myself, for having been sleeping in my berth while you have all been exposed to this gale." "There has not been much to do," the commander said.