The craft instantly lurched and trembled from bow to stern.
“She is sinking!” shrieked the captain. “Quick--to the boats!”
Chapter XXI
A Panic on Shipboard
A scene of the wildest description followed the frantic captain’s announcement and order. The sailors were panic stricken, and more than half of them plunged headlong into the sea.
The captain was scarcely less distracted than his men, and he only added to the helplessness of the situation by his words and actions.
Jack tried to pacify him by saying:
“Pardon me, señor capitan, but the ship will not sink at once if at all. You have plenty of time in which to save your lives.”
“But the Chilian! We shall be made prisoners of war. Heaven protect me! I was a fool to listen to you, Señor North.”
“It is too late to think of that now. It is your duty to see if something cannot be done to stop the ship’s leak.”