In another minute the ship lay hove-to a short distance to windward of us.  She looked like some huge dark spirit rising out of the ocean.  We knew that they must be lowering a boat, though we could not see it. Then we shouted, to show that we were all right and in good heart.  A shout from the boat's crew was given in return, and a light was held up to show us that help was coming.  Over the waves it came dancing towards us.  In a few minutes more the boat was up to us, with Mr Brand at the helm.  Whenever any very important work was to be performed, I observed the captain liked to intrust it to Cousin Silas.