The big main topgallant-sail, and the large main royal rose in front far above his own level, and away astern he could see the phosphorescent track of the ship distinctly marked.
Never before had he seen so lovely a spectacle.
Jack began to hum the air of an old sea song learned at home:
'Oh, wonder not that next to thee
I love the galloping wave.
The first of coursers wild and free,
And only carries the brave.
She's a gallant ship, with gallant crew,
Then, mother, be proud of your boy in blue.'
A sharp and stern hail reached him.
'Royal yard, there, are you going to furl that sail?'
'Ay, ay, sir,' he replied.
Rightly judging that some loosely fastened cordage, named gaskets, was for wrapping round the yard and sail, Jack used it, and 'picking up' the centre portion of the canvas he stowed it as best he could, and speedily returned to the deck.
The royal had not been stowed in shipshape fashion, yet it passed muster, and the lad presently discovered that he had spent nearly half his watch on the yard.
'You were asleep when making eight bells, Clewlin,' the mate observed.