noon
Lesly rigged the pumps , but the starboard one only could be made to work . From that time there were but two businesses aboard -- from the pump to the helm . The gale lasted two days and a night , the brig running under close-reefed topsails , we being afraid to shorten sail lest we might be overtaken by some pursuing vessel , so strong was the terror of our prison upon us . `` On the 16th , at noon , I again forced myself on deck , and taking a meridian observation , altered the course of the brig to east and by south , wishing to run to the southward of New Zealand , out of the usual track of shipping ; and having a notion that , should our provisions hold out , we might make the South American coast , and fall into Christian hands . This done , I was compelled to retire below , and for a week lay in my berth as one at the last gasp . At times I repented my resolution , Fair urging me to bestir myself , as the men were not satisfied with our course . On the 21st a mutiny occurred , led by Lyons , who asserted we were heading into the Pacific , and must infallibly perish .