The
self-styled Mrs. Grenville rendered good service in this hour of peril,
she voluntarily took the place of the steward, now called to the pumps,
and served out rations of biscuits and spirits to all hands, nor did she
forget herself on the occasion. The danger of her position appeared in
no way to appal her, and having to undergo no bodily fatigue beyond her
strength, she was very little affected by the disasters and hardships of
the past few days. Such of the officers and crew as had not been
swallowed up by the boiling surf were in a very weak and exhausted
condition, owing to their great labor at the pumps, when rescued from
their perilous position by the boats of the "Great Mogul." These
particulars were gathered from time to time from some of the crew, but
from Mrs. Grenville a more detailed account of the wreck was obtained.
That lady thought it necessary to keep to her cabin for the first week,
during which time she had to sketch out a fresh plan of action for the
future.
This she soon effected, having received all the required information
from the little fat Dutch stewardess concerning the ship, its
destination, and the names and positions of the passengers.
"My dear madam," said the polite Captain, addressing Mrs. Grenville,
"you really must allow me to recommend you to try an airing on the
quarter deck this beautiful morning; after the long seclusion of your
cabin you will, I am sure, find it both agreeable and refreshing.
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