The captain hurriedly left the cabin and made his way on deck.
There was the greatest confusion among the passengers who were running to and fro like lost sheep.
A panic had sprung up amongst them.
Nares ascertained that the ship was leaking badly and taking in water.
It was several feet deep in the engine-room.
The fires were speedily extinguished.
It seemed as if the steamship Benares of the P. and O. was doomed to be a total wreck.
To add to the confusion and amazement which prevailed on board, the wind arose.
It lashed the sea into foam.
Thunder crashed and lightning flashed vividly.