Helpless in the trough of the seas, the Zug was now drifting rapidly on to the reef. Von Giespert, after bellowing incoherencies, ordered a storm trysail to be set in the hope that the vessel's head would pay off. But the moment the canvas was hoisted it blew to atoms.
As a last resource both anchors were let go. Owing to the depth of water outside the reef, it was a long time before they obtained a grip. When they did, the Zug was within two hundred yards of the coral barrier.
Momentarily she swung to her cables, then with a vicious snub both chains parted simultaneously. Seven minutes later, with a crash that was audible above the roar of the breakers, the Zug ended her career upon the outer reef of Nua Leha.
CHAPTER XXXII
Settling Accounts
Harborough had not waited for the doomed vessel to strike. Already the Titania's two boats—the only serviceable ones—had been lowered, and were pulling towards the leeside of the reef.
Villiers was in charge of the cutter that had formerly belonged to the Zug. Beverley was in command of the gig. Both crews were wearing life-belts.
It was as well they did, for barely had the gig gone fifty yards from the Titania when she shipped a heavy sea and filled completely. Luckily all hands managed to gain the yacht by means of ropes thrown them from the Titania's bows.
Satisfying himself that his comrades late of the gig were safe, Villiers held on, encouraging the crew by word and gesture, and skilfully handling the boat to meet every dangerously-crested wave.