It was ticklish work descending into the frail crafts as they pitched and rolled under the lee of the towering hull, but the various crews were embarked without mishap.
“Pull away to sea, and await signal to return,” bawled the executive officer from the bridge.
“Ay, ay, sir,” came faintly through the darkness.
“Officers of boats will examine stores and equipments,” was the next order. “Also ascertain proficiency of crews.”
Again came the obedient replies, then the captain, first lieutenant and the men kept on board as a precaution, settled down to wait.
“We will give them ten minutes,” said the former, presently. “They can’t pull far in that time. Nothing like actual experience to——”
He paused abruptly and glanced out to windward. A chill blast had suddenly come from that direction. The old Monongahela gave an uneasy roll.
“That means wind and plenty of it, sir,” exclaimed Lieutenant Watson. “Shall I——”
“Hoist the recall at once,” broke in Captain Brookes.