Presently we heard my father's deep voice:
"I see her," he cried. "My God, she's going straight upon the 'Devil's Tooth.'"
The "Devil's Tooth" was one of the most dangerous rocks on the coast. It was called "devil's tooth" because it was thought to possess evil power, and because it had been the means of wrecking many vessels as they tried to get into our harbour.
He had scarcely spoken when we heard a most awful crash. It was far louder than the roar of the storm, and immediately afterwards we fancied we caught the cry of people in distress.
"There, it's on! Pull!" cried my father, "we may reach them yet. God help and preserve us all."
Every man pulled with all his might towards the great rock with the terrible name.
"The great God will help us," said one solemnly.
"Amen," cried the rest; "but this is terrible."
Meanwhile, inch by inch, we drew nearer to the doomed vessel.