I was so utterly benumbed, too, in every limb, as to be nearly unconscious of sensation.

At length I summoned up the resolution of despair, and rushing to the mainsail let it go by the run.

As might have been expected, it flew over the bows, and, getting drenched with water, carried away the mast short off by the board.

This latter accident alone saved me from instant destruction.

Under the jib only, I now boomed along before the wind, shipping heavy seas occasionally over the counter, but relieved from the terror of immediate death.