The clear frosty weather which they had enjoyed, passed away on the 27th of December, and gave place to something very different. The morning rose with clouds; the wind blew a heavy gale, and torrents of rain fell all day. The lighthouse-tower rocked before the fury of the tempest; and when the night came on, though the beacon was lighted as usual, Darling had very little hope of its being of much service, since the thick dashing rain would prevent the light from being seen. The gale did not abate during the whole night, and the wind and waves had terrific power, as they beat upon the windows and walls. William and Robert took their father's place at midnight, and watched and tended the light from that time till daylight. They looked over the sea, endeavouring to descry any vessel that might be near, but the atmosphere was so murky that they could see nothing.
A little before daybreak the violence of the storm somewhat abated, and the horizon became more distinct. The young men, keeping "a sharp look-out," thought they saw some object moving on the Naestone rock.
"It is some poor wretch shipwrecked," said William.
"Do you think it is," said Robert. "If so, we must go out and get him off, if possible. Shall I call father?"
"No; do not disturb him until we are quite certain. It will soon be light enough for us to see."
"I can see now! I am sure it is a man moving. It will not be a very safe undertaking, though."
"That does not matter. We cannot leave the poor fellow there to perish."
"Call father up, then. By the time he is ready, it will be safe to extinguish the light, and we can all go out together."
When Mr. Darling was awake, he did not hesitate for a moment.
"Get the coble ready, and we four will man it. It will be hard if we do not bring the poor fellow back to have a little of our Christmas cheer."