During this time the mate went to the man at the wheel, and told him to steer a little to the starboard. This brought the schooner somewhat around, and gave us a chance to take in the man, should he be fortunate enough to grasp one or the other of the ropes.
"I'm afraid we'll lose him in the darkness," said Dibble.
"Let us do all we can," I said, thinking how I would feel if placed in a position similar to that occupied by the man on the wreck.
"Help! Help!" repeated the unfortunate, in lower tones.
"He's almost done for," said the old sailor, with a shake of his head.
"There he is!" I cried, as another flash of light came.
"Sure enough. Stand to catch the rope!"
"Stand to catch the rope!" I repeated.
"I will! Throw it to me!" came back the cry.
In an instant both of us threw our ropes. By an unfortunate twist Dibble's went spinning from his hands, and, before he could catch it, went over the side.