Thrill of the chase

INTERREGNUM

Jim Ring Writesideleft £9.99

When it was safely below, the four of us crowded round the wheel. ‘Course, sir?’ shouted Crawford, wiping some of the rain off his face.

‘We can’t do anything to windward in this weather without the jib. Where exactly do you think we are?

Hawkins chipped in. ‘About a mile north-north-east of Foulness point. Heading for Holiwell Point.’

‘Tide still on the ebb?’ asked Kit.

‘Low water more like. Maybe just beginning to flood.’

‘What do you say we take her in and ground her?’ asked Kit, turning to Crawford.

‘Mad not to. sir. Can’t muck about in