122 THE WHALEMAN'S ADVENTURES. 



and rails were all one in their Gilpin race ; and 

 Mazeppa-like, as they dashed along at the rear 

 of the monster, they could only see one white 

 bank of foam, which rolled up before them 

 higher than the bow of the boat, as if it would 

 momently rush aboard. 



The whale, in this instance, decided that 

 their ride should not be altogether barren of 

 variety, for they soon found themselves rushing 

 into the midst of loose whales, which, having 

 been disturbed by the other boats, were merrily 

 fluking and snorting all around, and playing their 

 mad antics and gambols. The other boats had 

 also fastened, and as their whale, too, seemed to 

 have a fondness for company, they all became 

 congregated in one wild and excited troop. 



At length, as the first whale slackened his 

 speed, they hauled up to him, and the captain 

 darted his lance adroitly, which took effect. 

 The second mate, who had kept as near as 

 possible during the chase, now fastened with 

 his barbed irons, and whichsoever way the har- 

 assed whale turned, he met an enemy. Weak- 

 ened with the loss of blood, which was now 



