human
We are powerless, he said, coming aft to make his voice audible.
gpt
Even if some of the yacht's people are swept clear of the reef, they will be smothered long before they drift in this direction. The thing was so unexpected that none of them has secured a cork jacket, or even a life belt.
human
There is one chance in a hundred, Monsieur, said Peridot, speaking so that Ingersoll alone could hear.
gpt
The point is--will you take it? You and Monsieur Tollemache would agree, of course. Will you risk Mademoiselle's life as well?
human
A chance? What sort of chance?
gpt
I know every inch of Les Verrés. A little inlet, not much longer than the yacht, and perhaps forty feet wide, runs in from the south just where she lies. Her hull and the reef itself form a breakwater. We can make it, and get a line aboard.
human
Then for the love of Heaven why wait?
gpt
One moment, Monsieur. We have yet a second or two for decision. You see how the wreck lifts each time a sea hits her. The tide is rising. If she shifts when we are in there, goodby to the Hirondelle!
human
My daughter would never forgive me if she knew I chose the coward's path, he said.
gpt
Go ahead, Peridot! Tell us what we have to do, and it shall be done.