“I thought it was the north star that sailors steered by,” spoke Ned.
“So it is, son, but there are two stars in the bowl of the dipper, called the pointers, that are right in line with the north star. Get your eye on them pointers, and you can tell where the north star is easier than if you don’t see the big ladle,” and Sam began tightening anew some ropes which did not just suit him.
But even the stars were blotted out by the curtain of mist and Sam’s hopes were blighted. However, he made the best of it.
“I’ll risk it by the wind,” he said.
“How’s that?” asked Jerry.
“It’s generally blowing off shore at this time of night. If we keep the breeze in our faces we may strike the beach.”
Accordingly the Dartaway was headed into the teeth of the wind, and the engine regulated to moderate speed. Through the darkness the craft sped over the waters. It was now night, and though the boys tried not to show their nervousness, they did not succeed very well.
It was one thing to be out in their boat all night on a lake or river. They knew in a case like that they were in no immediate danger. But out on the ocean after dark, in a small craft, and not knowing their position, was a more serious proposition. Besides, there seemed to be something “scary” in the mere thought of the vastness of the sea, the great depths, the monsters that inhabited it, and the great waves that the wind could raise in a short time.
“Let’s put down the curtains,” suggested the sailor. “We want all the shelter we can get, for it will be chilly by morning.”
“Do you think we’ll be out here all night?” asked Ned.