Many of them came to the surface together, and on the same plank or support of whatever kind continued the combat, begun possibly in the vortex fathoms down.

Writhing and twisting in deadly embrace, sometimes striking with sword or javelin, they kept the sea around them in agitation, at one place inky-black, at another aflame with fiery reflections.

With their struggles he had nothing to do; they were all his enemies: not one of them but would kill him for the plank upon which he floated.

He made haste to get away.
About that time he heard oars in quickest movement, and beheld a galley coming down upon him.

The tall prow seemed doubly tall, and the red light playing upon its gilt and carving gave it an appearance of snaky life.