CHAPTER Vi.
ON DECK.

I AM in the open air and breathing with all the strength
of my lungs. Iam at last released from that suffocating
box, and I stand on a ship’s deck. I scan the horizon
instantly, but no land is to be seen. Nothing but the
circular line that divides the sea from the sky. -

No, there was not even a sign of the mainland on the
west, on that side where the coast of North America
extends for thousands of miles !

The sun is sinking, and casts its slanting rays on the
surface of the ocean. It must be about six o'clock. I
consult my watch. Yes, it is half-past six.

This is what happened during that night, the 16th of
June.

I waited, as I said, for the door to open, firmly resolved
not to yield to sleep. I had no doubt that it was then
light, and the day advancing, while no one came. Of the
food that had been supplied to me nothing remained, and
I began to be hungry, but not thirsty, for I still had a
little of the ale.

After I awoke, certain quiverings of the hull convinced

H