Presently the
Hydriot came aft, more moody than ever, the bearer of fierce
remonstrance against the continuing of the struggle; he received a
resolute answer, and still we held our course. Soon there came a
heavy sea, that caught the bow of the brigantine as she lay jammed
in betwixt the waves; she bowed her head low under the waters, and
shuddered through all her timbers, then gallantly stood up again
over the striving sea, with bowsprit entire. But where were the
crew? It was a crew no longer, but rather a gathering of Greek
citizens; the shout of the seamen was changed for the murmuring of
the people--the spirit of the old Demos was alive. The men came
aft in a body, and loudly asked that the vessel should be put
about, and that the storm be no longer tempted. Now, then, for
speeches. The captain, his eyes flashing fire, his frame all
quivering with emotion--wielding his every limb, like another and a
louder voice, pours forth the eloquent torrent of his threats and
his reasons, his commands and his prayers; he promises, he vows, he
swears that there is safety in holding on--safety, IF GREEKS WILL
BE BRAVE! The men hear and are moved; but the gale rouses itself
once more, and again the raging sea comes trampling over the
timbers that are the life of all.
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