Daggett had been carried over the narrow shelf on which Stimson landed, in consequence of his having no support, or any means of arresting his momentum. He did thrust forward his lance, or leaping-staff; but its point met nothing but air. The fall, however, was by no means perpendicular, several projections of the rocks helping to lessen it; though it is probable that the life of the unfortunate sealer was saved altogether by means of the lance. This was beneath him as he made his final descent, and he slid along it the whole length, canting him into a spot where was the only piece of stinted vegetation that was to be seen for a considerable distance. In consequence of coming down on a tolerably thick bunch of furze, the fall was essentially broken.
When Roswell reached his unfortunate companion, the latter was perfectly sensible, and quite cool.
"God be thanked that you have found me, Gar'ner," he said; "at one time I had given it up."
"Thank God, also, that you are living, my friend," answered the other. "I expected only to find your body; but you do not seem to be much hurt."
"More than appears, Gar'ner; more than appears. My left leg is broken, certainly; and one of my shoulders pains me a good deal, though it is neither out of joint or broken. This is a sad business for a sealing v'y'ge!"
"Give yourself no concern about your craft, Daggett--I will look to her, and to your voyage."
"Will you stand by the schooner, Gar'ner?--Promise me that, and my mind will be at peace."
"I do promise. The two vessels shall stick together, at all events, until we are clear of the ice."
"Ay, but that won't do. My Sea Lion must be filled up as well as your own. Promise me that"
"It shall be done, God willing. But here comes Stimson; the first thing will be to get you out of this spot."