"We've broken our nose off," he called up to the bridge.
"Is she taking in any water?"
"Yes, sir; but I think the bulkhead will hold it so we won't go down."
"Good! Ahoy, coal carrier there."
"Aye, aye," came the reply from the deck of the stranger.
"Who are you?"
"The 'James Macomber,' coal laden, bound for Shoal Island."
"Well, I must say you are doing some fine steering. What are you doing over here?"
"We got out of position in the fog."
"I should say you did. How are you?"