Chapter Twenty Eight.
The Fate of the “Sunshine.”
Stunned at first, for a few minutes, by the extreme violence of the explosion, no one on board the Sunshine spoke, though each man stood at his post ready to act.
“Strange,” said the captain at last. “There seems to be no big wave this time.”
“That only shows that we are not as near the island as we thought. But it won’t be long of— See! There it comes,” said the hermit. “Now, Winnie, cling to my arm and put your trust in God.”
Nigel, who had secured a life-buoy, moved close to the girl’s side, and looking anxiously out ahead saw a faint line of foam in the thick darkness which had succeeded the explosion. Already the distant roar of the billow was heard, proving that it had begun to break.
“The wind comes with it,” said Van der Kemp.
“Stand by!” cried the captain, gazing intently over the side.
Next moment came the sharp order to hoist the foretopsail and jib, soon followed by “Cut the cable!”
There was breeze enough to swing the vessel quickly round. In a few seconds her stern was presented to the coming wave, and her bow cleft the water as she rushed upon what every one now knew was her doom.