nearly
three to one
But , unless as a last resource , I would not run the risk of touching at any island with them on board . As long as we are at sea they are comparatively harmless and , unless there is gross carelessness on the part of their guard , there is little fear of an outbreak . But once let them get on land , the matter is changed altogether . They are nearly three to one as against the warders , marines , and crew ; and I would not run the risk , on any account , if it can be possibly avoided . No , no , Mr. Hudson , unless it be a matter of life and death , we will put in nowhere till we are in Sydney harbour . '' Chapter 9 : Two Offers . At nightfall the Paramatta was in the midst of the icebergs , and Reuben soon understood the antipathy which Bill had expressed for them .