David was more than willing, and as he busied himself with stays and lashings he cast his eye aft until he could see the gray-haired skipper of the _Pilgrim_ huddled limply in a chair, a forlorn picture of misery and weakness. David managed to work his way nearer until he was able to greet the haggard, brooding ship-master who was dwelling more with his great loss than with his wonderful escape, as he tremulously muttered in response: