The rain came down in sheets, and the thunder rattled, while lightning played in strange fashion all around; but this storm was not in the same class with the dreadful West India hurricane that had sent the poor Falcon on to the cruel reefs, to wind up her voyaging forever.
Darry might have liked to sit up and listen to the men tell about former experiences; but the keeper chased them to their beds, knowing that it was necessary to secure some sleep, since they must remain up the latter half of the night.
A hand touching his face aroused Darry.
"Time to git up, lad, if so be yuh wants to go along," came a voice which he recognized as belonging to Abner, though he had been dreaming of the captain.
He was quickly dressed and out of doors.
It seemed to be still raining, and the wind howled worse than ever, though but little thunder accompanied the vivid flashes of lightning.
Having been giving some spare waterproof garments in the shape of oilskins, and a sou'wester, Darry felt himself prepared to face any conditions that might arise during his long walk with his friend.
Taking lantern and coster lights for signalling, Abner set out, another patrol going in the opposite direction.
Those who had been out for hours had returned to the station in an almost exhausted condition, and at the time Abner and Darry left they were warming up with a cup of coffee, strong spirits being absolutely forbidden while on duty.
Darry asked questions when the wind allowed of his speaking, which was not all the time, to be sure.