“We need not let the people know this, though,” observed Commander Newcombe. “Those who go in the boats may be allowed to suppose that the ship will be kept afloat better without them. Mr Tobin, hoist out the boats at once. The women and children must be divided among them. I have settled who is to go in each. Colonel, you will accompany your wife and daughters.”
“I have a higher duty, sir, though I thank you for the offer. I remain with my men,” answered Colonel Morley in a firm tone.
“And I remain with you and the ship, sir,” said Mr Tobin; “and I believe you will find that most of the other officers desire to do the same.”
“I will direct the junior officers of my regiment to draw lots who is to go,” said Colonel Morley.
Some little time was occupied in making these and similar arrangements. The three officers then separated, to perform the duties they had undertaken. While the naval officers were superintending the lowering of the boats, an undertaking of great difficulty and risk, Colonel Morley entered the cabin, and having summoned the officers around him, he informed them of the determination which had been arrived at. He spoke in a low, calm voice, so that he might not be overheard by his wife and daughters, or the other ladies. The captains at once declined drawing lots.
“Twopenny is the only married man among us,” said Captain Power; “he must accompany his wife.”
The lieutenants, when they heard that the colonel intended to remain, at once decided to stay by him and their men. The ensigns, with the exception of poor Holt, who was still in his cabin, were inclined to decide as their superior officers had already done.
“No, my lads,” said the colonel, “you are young, and may have many years of life before you. I must insist on your obeying my commands.”
The lots were quickly drawn, and Ensign Holt was declared to have the option of going. He had been watching the proceeding with staring eyes and a look of intense anxiety and dread, fully believing, apparently, that he should be among those to remain. The excitement was too much for his nerves. As his name was pronounced, he sank down on the deck without uttering a word. Captain Power kindly raised him up. An almost idiotic expression had come over the young officer’s countenance, and he scarcely seemed aware of what was occurring.
“Come, Holt, bestir yourself,” said the captain. “Pack up anything you may especially wish to take with you. The boats will soon be shoving off.”