Thomas lowers Catalina into the lifeboat and turns to the other crew members who now realise that some of them will have to be left aboard the burning ship.
Shock soon turned into panic as they all tried to beat each other to the remaining seats on the lifeboat. Thomas attempted to take control.
“Gentlemen, now is not the time to panic. Let’s decide this in a fair manner.” Reluctantly the crew obeyed the order, for although Thomas was not the most senior of officers present, he had the respect of the crew and of the Captain, which made him important enough in the eyes of the regular crew members.
Much to the dismay of the survivors, the lifeboat left undamaged was one of the smaller that the Curious Jane carried, one of a pair that carried only eight men, compared to the larger pair which held double that each. Thomas looked around the deck, making a quick headcount – from the crew of forty six that they had left Portsmouth with, thirteen men now stood before him.
“Captain Rogers, sir. Would you care to climb into the lifeboat, while I take charge here, I...”
“No, Thomas. I won’t be getting into the lifeboat.”
“But you’re the Captain, sir. You get priority over...”
“No. I receive no priority here. It is my duty as Captain to ensure the safety of my crew and I have failed that duty. Over half my crew lie dead across my boards, I shall not run to safety and allow another of my men to die while I live in his place. I will go down with this ship and with my men. Thank you, Thomas but my place remains here, you will take over the command of these men.”
“Very well, Captain. I understand. I too will remain on board, alongside you, sir, as I have always done.”
“No, Thomas, these men need someone to lead them once you have reached land, I trust it to you to honour this position, as will they. You have served me well, these long years, now, it’s your turn to take command.”
“Captain, I...”
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