still in charge at the
helm, the second mate returns to the fore-deck, where by the
manger-board the others are again in deliberation; Gomez counselling, or
rather dictating what they are next to do.

The programme he places before them is in part what has been arranged
already--to run along coast till they discover a gap in the line of
coral reef; for it is this which causes the breakers. Further, they are
told that, when such gap be found, they will lower a boat; and having
first scuttled the barque, abandon her; then row themselves ashore.

The night is so far favourable to the execution of the scheme. It is a
clear moonlight; and running parallel to the trend of the shore, as they
are now doing, they can see the breakers distinctly, their white crests
in contrast with the dark _facade_ of cliff, which extends continuously
along the horizon's edge; here and there rising into hills, one of which
looming up on the starboard bow has the dimensions of a mountain.

The barque is now about a league's distance from land; and half-way
between are the breakers, their roar sounding ominously through the calm
quiet of the night. As they were making but little way--scarce three
knots an hour--one proposes that the boat be lowered at once, and such
traps as they intend taking put into her. In such a tranquil sea it
will tow alongside in safety.

As this will be some trouble taken off their hands in advance, the plan
is approved of, and the pinnace being selected, as the most suitable
boat for beaching.

Clustering around it, they commence operations. Two leap lightly
inside; insert the plug, ship the rudder, secure the oars and
boat-hooks, clear the life-lines, and cast off the lanyards of the
gripes; the others holding the fall-tackle in hand, to see that they
were clear for running. Then taking a proper turn they lower away.

And, soon as the boat's bottom touches water, with the two men in it,
the painter, whose loose end has been left aboard, is hauled fast,
bringing the boat abeam, where it is made fast under a set of man-ropes,
already dropped over the side.

Other movements succeed; the pirates passing to and from the forecastle,
carrying canvas bags, and bundles of clothing, with such other of their
belongings as they deem necessary for a debarkation like that intended.
A barrel of pork, another of biscuit, and a beaker of water are turned
out, and handed down into the boat; not forgetting a keg containing ru