They could not see one another truly, but still were aware of being companioned.
In the instants of greatest danger, each time that a fresh mountain of water rose behind them, came to overtower them, and crash horribly against their boat, one of their hands would move as if involuntarily, to form the sign of the cross.

They no more thought of Gaud than of any other woman, or any marrying.

The travail was lasting too long, and they had no thoughts left.

The intoxication of noise, cold, and fatigue drowned all in their brain.

They were merely two pillars of stiffened human flesh, held up by the helm; two strong beasts, cowering, but determined they would not be overwhelmed..