The launch had no sooner struck the water than the sea-monster—after a series of terrible contortions, during which it almost seemed as if his huge body would be snapped in twain—began to disgorge the varied contents of his stomach.
First, shower after shower of many colored fishes, of all sizes, from a hand’s length to three cubits, filled the air.
As they fell into the water, they calmly swam away, no doubt well pleased to find themselves in more agreeable surroundings.
Thousands of shell fish, all kinds, sizes and colors, then came flying forth, rattling their claws together as they fell into the water, as if in defiance at their huge foe that had been so unceremoniously called upon to give up the results of many a long hour’s hunt.
The living was followed by the dead, for now came forth several wooden buckets, three old blankets, numerous bits of plank, rope ends, shreds of sail, paint pots, bundles of oakum, and wads of cotton, all of which he had picked up while following in the wake of our vessel. At last the man of straw was cast out high into the air with a deep grunt of satisfaction.
After him came number one of the lost seamen.
Numbers two and three were not slow in arriving.
The launch made haste to pick them up, leaving the sick monster to recover his health and spirits as well he might.
Bulger received the rescued men with the wildest manifestations of delight, and clapping on all sail, away we bounded before a rattling breeze.
To my infinite joy, the water now began to increase in warmth.