For an instant his wonderful self-possession abandoned him; he could only gaze vacantly at the leaden-colored bay, without a thought or expedient.

But in another moment he saw that the boat was returning from the distance.

Had he lost his only chance?
He glanced hurriedly at his watch; he had come more quickly than he imagined; there would still be time.

He beckoned impatiently to the ferryman; the boat--a ship's pinnace, with two men in it--crept in with exasperating slowness.

At last the two rowers suddenly leaped ashore.
"Ye might have come before, with the other passenger.