human
The rascals have fled, said Captain Mangles.
gpt
Well, so much the better, my lord. We are spared so many disagreeable scenes.
human
I agree with you, replied Glenarvan.
gpt
Besides, there is a better captain on board, yourself, and courageous seamen, your companions. Command us; we are ready to obey you.
human
What is to be done?
gpt
We have two ways, my lord, of extricating ourselves from this situation: either to raise the vessel and put her to sea, or reach the coast on a raft, which can be easily constructed.
human
If the vessel can be raised, let us raise it, replied Glenarvan.
gpt
That is the best plan, is it not?
human
Yes, my lord; for, once ashore, what would become of us without means of transport?
gpt
Let us avoid the coast, added Paganel.
human
We must beware of New Zealand.
gpt
All the more so, as we have gone considerably astray, continued Captain Mangles.
human
Halley's carelessness has carried us to the south, that is evident. At noon I will take an observation; and if, as I presume, we are below Auckland, I will try to sail the Macquarie up along the coast.
gpt
But the injuries of the brig?
human
I do not think they are serious, madam, replied Captain Mangles.
gpt
I shall rig a jury-mast at the bows; and we shall sail slowly, it is true, but still we shall go where we wish. If, unfortunately, the hull is stove in, or if the ship cannot be extricated, we must gain the coast, and travel by land to Auckland.
human
Let us examine the state of the vessel, then, said the major.
gpt
This is of the first importance.