observed that the boat had rapidly dropped a long
way to leeward. While he was watching her, a huge wave rose up between
her and the ship. He looked anxiously, expecting to see her on the
crest of the sea. She was nowhere visible. It was some time before
another hand came aft to the helm to relieve the captain. The second
and third mates were forward. Not a seaman had been able to keep his
eye upon the boat. Mr Paget, however, felt sure he knew where she
could be found. The captain was now able to look about for her. Mr
Paget told him his fears.

"I am afraid you are right, sir," he said, after he had continued for
some time looking out all around.

"The boat has been swamped. I have no doubt about it." Mr Paget's
heart sank within him at these words; he had formed a sincere regard for
Charles Dicey; he felt still more for the poor girls who were thus
deprived of their brother.

"I hoped better things of that boat," observed the captain; "but a very
heavy sea is running even for her. Poor fellows, I would to heaven this
had not happened. Still she may have escaped."

He hailed the men aloft, and desired them to look out. No one could see
the boat; and neither the lifebuoy nor the young sailor, who, it was
supposed, had got hold of it, were anywhere to be seen. The captain
continued looking out for some time, ordering those aloft also to keep a
bright look-out. At length he gave the order to brace round the yards,
and the ship once more gathered way. "We must not give them up yet; so
I will wear ship, and run over the ground we have passed."

While this manoeuvre was being carried out the Miss Diceys and several
other ladies, followed by Mrs Clagget, appeared on deck.

"What is the matter, captain?" exclaimed the latter. "They tell me that
a man has fallen overboard, and that a boat has gone to look for him.
How could you let a boat go away while the sea is tumbling about in this
terrible fashion; and, pray, who has gone in her? Ah, Mr Paget, I am
glad to see you have not risked your life. But where is Charles Dicey?
Just like him, to do such a madcap trick. My dear girls, your brother
jumped into the boat to pick up a silly man who tumbled overboard, and
they cannot find him or any of those who went with him."

"Our brother!" exclaimed Emily and May in a tone of alarm. "Where is
the boat? Oh! do tell us, Captain Westerway; we do not see her."

"We are somewhat anxious about the boat, I co