"Keep clear," called the pilot from the quarter-deck.
"Hold there, on board!" returned the sailor who held the slack end of the rope.
The rope fell into the sea and dashed against the side of the ship. She was now close to the breakwater. The tide was not high enough to anchor by the old mole. The captain called out to the pilot:
"Sound."
The pilot said to the sailor at his side:
"Drop anchor."
The anchor fell into the sea with a strident sound of chains. Then the windlass was heard at work.
"Are you going to moor the ship, Domingo?" asked Don Melchor.
"Yes, señor," returned the captain.
"It is not necessary; you can warp ahead with two anchors. In an hour you will be able to get in."