While the circle was being formed, a third boat was employed in driving the fish toward the centre of the enclosure, as there was a risk that they might otherwise escape before it was completed.  The wind was very light, and the sea calm, so that we could watch the operation at our leisure.  The other boats, now fastened with long ropes to the seine, began slowly dragging it towards the shore, the fish, meantime, mostly keeping in its centre.  Now and then a few would make their escape by leaping over it, but the greater number did not appear to have the sense to do this.