The shouts increased; the alarm was given on every hand. Lights were seen moving about on the shores of the island, and the sound of arms snatched up in haste was heard.
"We sink! we sink!" cried the crew of the junks.
Several men sprang into the sea, and swam, puffing and blowing, towards land. Terror had reached its height among the troops. The junks sank rapidly; the water bubbled and boiled as it poured into their holds. The enemy was at hand, and yet invisible. The more lights were brought, the blacker seemed the sea.
The Prince of Nagato leaned from the canoe, and vainly strove to pierce the gloom with his eye. Suddenly a violent shock made his boat start and quiver, dancing about in strange fashion for some moments.
"We can see no more than you," said a voice; "excuse us, Prince, for giving you such a knock."
"Oh, it's you!" said Nagato; "did you succeed?"
"We should be at work still, if our task were not accomplished. We have gnawed through the wood like an army of rats, and made a big hole in the junk."
"Good, good!" said the Prince; "you are indeed valuable assistants."
"Let us sheer off," said Raiden; "they have long-boats still; they may pursue us."
"And our comrades?"