I laughed, perhaps not very merrily, but in grim humor, at the horrible predicament in which I found myself.
Then, groping my way to a cot upon which I found some disreputable straw, I rolled over and went philosophically to sleep.
For the life of me I could not tell how long I lay in this half stupor, brought about by my recent tremendous exertions.
When I finally awoke, hours later, I was all of a tremble, partly from the chilly surroundings, and also on account of a nasty dream that had come to me, where I seemed once more on the wreck, lashed to the rail, unable to move hand or foot, while Hildegarde, swept away on a giant billow, held out her hands entreatingly in vain, calling my name in agonized tones.
No wonder I shivered.
I was of a decidedly practical nature, and instead of bemoaning my fate, I sprang erect, and began to thresh around as though suddenly taking leave of my good senses.
The result became speedily apparent, for with the accelerated heart movement a tingling of warm blood began to be felt to my very toes and fingers, so that I was soon glowing.
I wondered what time it was.
They had not robbed me of my watch, but it had seen rough usage in the sea, and I hardly expected to find it going.
To my surprise, upon holding it up to my ear I heard the busy ticking.