acting as I did. I could not live to
behold such a terrible _holocaust_--such a wholesale burning of human
beings!

"At least," thought I, "they shall not perish thus. Though their fate
be sealed, they shall have a choice of death--they shall choose between
burning and drowning--the latter will at least be easier to endure."

It was this last reflection that had prompted me to my purpose.

Bending downward, I hurriedly communicated my design to my companion. I
was gratified with his reply.

"All right, Willim! good work--do it!--do it--set 'em free, poor
creetirs. I was thinking o't myself--tho' 'twas too late--haste 'ee,
lad--look sharp!"

I waited not for the end of his speech; but springing back to the deck,
rushed towards the hatch. I thought not of looking below--indeed, the
smoke was now coming up so thickly that I could scarce see the terrified
faces. The glimpse I had of them was sufficient to satisfy me, that, in
a few minutes more, those glaring eyes would have been blind, and those
hoarse voices hushed in death.

I remembered where one batten had been removed, and where the other had
been attacked by the axe. I renewed the attack--striking with all the
strength and dexterity I could demand.

My efforts proved successful; and, after half-a-dozen blows, the spikes
yielded, and the cleet of timber flew off.

I did not stay to raise the grating; I knew that would be done by the
pressure from below; and, gliding back, I once more climbed over the
bows.

One glance back, as I passed over the head, told me that my purpose had
been fully accomplished. Instantly as I parted from it the grating was
flung off, and I saw the stream of black forms pouring upwards and
spreading itself over the deck!

I stayed to observe no more; but, sliding down a rope, was received in
the arms of my companion.

CHAPTER FIFTY FIVE.

During my short absence, Brace had not been idle.

He had got his little raft compacted--its timbers tied together--and it
now carried us both without even dipping under water. The two spars,
the dolphin-striker, and half of the spritsail-yard were laid parallel
to each other, and transversely to these were the broad pieces, that
exhibited in large letters the name of the ill-fated barque. There were
several other pieces of timber, a handspike or two, and an oar--which
Brace had picked up as he glided towards the head--and over all was a
piece of sail-cloth, or tarpaulin. The w