At first it did not seem much to be concerned about; she certainly was careened a little on one side, but it was broad morning, and the weather was fair and calm; one had to know such things by experience to become uneasy, and understand that it was a serious matter.
The captain was to be pitied.

It was his fault, as he had not understood exactly where they were.

He wrung his hands, saying: "God help us! God help us!" in a voice of despair.
Close to them, during a lifting of the fog, they could distinguish a headland, but not recognize it.

But the mists covered it anew, and they saw it no longer.
There was no sail or smoke in sight.

They all jostled about, hurrying and knocking the deck lumber over.