If
it strikes us it will run down the wire shrouds, and then straight
into the water."
In five minutes all was in readiness; the boats securely lashed on
deck, the davits down below, and the lightning protectors tied
tightly to the wire shrouds.
"Now, captain, I think we have done all that we can do. What are
you doing now?"
"I am running a life line right round her, sir. It may save more
than one life if the seas make a sweep of her."
"You are right, captain. These eighteen-inch bulwarks are no great
protection."
Four sailors speedily lashed a three-inch rope four feet above the
deck, from the forestay round the shrouds and aft to the mizzen,
hove as tight as they could get it and then fastened. While this
was being done one of the mates cut up a piece of two-inch rope
into several foot lengths, and gave one to each of the men and
officers, including Frank and George Lechmere.
"If you tie the middle of that round your chest under the arms, you
will have the two ends ready to lash yourself to windward when it
gets bad. A couple of twists round anything will keep you safe,
however much water may come over her."
"Do you mean to stay on deck, sir?" the skipper asked.
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