From the position we had gained we could now see to leeward; and there, sure enough, hung the mainmast, which the sea was tossing up and down in a way which would speedily have destroyed our boat.  The coxswain's resolution was taken.  Running to windward, he ordered the anchor to be let go and the sails lowered.  His object was to get sufficiently near the wreck to receive the people on board without actually touching her. This was a dangerous undertaking; but it had to be performed, if any of the shipwrecked crew were to be saved.  Six hands went to the bow, and gradually the cable was paid out, the huge rolling seas carrying us nearer and nearer the wreck.  Several broke over us, and, rising against the side of the vessel, concealed her and the crew hanging on to the rigging from our sight.  I remained seated, clinging on to the thwart, for I knew that I could do nothing.  The brave coxswain, standing up, watched for an advantageous moment to approach the wreck.  It seemed to me that it would never come.