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And when it was day, they knew not the land; but they discovered a certain creek with a shore, into the which they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship. 40. And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto the sea, and loosed the rudder-bands, and noised up the main-sail to the wind, and made toward shore. 41.
The sight of Bladud as he sat there leaning on the hilt of his sword with an expression of what appeared to be serene contentment had also a quieting effect on the men. When the increasing light showed that the sandy bay was a spot that might possibly be reached in safety, orders were given to cut the cables, loose the rudder-bands and hoist the sail.
The anchors were not taken on board, but to save time and trouble were 'left in the sea, the cables being simply cut. The 'rudder-bands' that is, the lashings which had secured the two paddle-like rudders, one on either beam, which had been tied up to be out of the way when the stern anchors were put out are loosed, and the rudders drop into place.
That night, this hardy mariner half agriculturist as he was got into his whale-boat, and sailed for the Vineyard, all alone, taking the chest with him. This was nothing, however; for quite often, before, had he been off at sea, in his boat, alone, looking out for inward-bound vessels to pilot. "Launch thy bark, mariner! Christian, God speed thee! Let loose the rudder-bands, Good angels lead thee!
At that moment the voice of little Maikar was heard shouting, in stentorian tones, "Land ahead!" The captain replied with a sharp "let go!" and four anchors were promptly dropped from the stern. At the same moment he placed the helm fair amidships, and made it fast with rudder-bands.
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