ON SHORT ALLOWANCE. 179

when we come to an anchor, and see that no one goes
ashore except those whom we feel positive can be trusted,”
Ben said, and then a gradual change of the weather put
an end to the conversation. ‘Better furl the topgallant
sails, flying jib and mainsail, and single reef the topsail,”
he added, a few seconds later. “If this weather con-
tinues as it threatens, it will be best to give St. Helena
the go-by, and bear up for Ascension. I don’t want to
spend too much time around here.”’

From that moment until nearly morning there was no
opportunity for the members of the crew to hatch any
mischief among themselves, for all hands were kept
steadily at work.

By midnight the wind was blowing considerably more
than half a gale, and the sea was remarkably heavy.

At three o’clock in the morning there were signs that
the wind would soon fine down to a fair sailing breeze,
and Ben turned in.

Two hours later the first officer knocked at the door of
his room.

“‘T set the mainsail an hour ago, sir,’ Mr. Bean said,
when he had been told to enter, “and we have just made
land bearing south, fifteen miles dead to windward. Do
you think it best to attempt to work in, sir?”

Instead of deciding the question then and there, Ben
arose, put on his boots and coat, for he had turned in
“all standing,” and went on deck.

The crew were watching the movements of the officers
very intently, for they had not lost sight of the fact that