You’re in no mood, I see, to negotiate further; But time, you know, brings with it many a change—— [_Nods in a friendly fashion._ We’ll meet when you’re sinking, if not before; Perhaps I may then find you more in the humour. [_Goes into the cabin._ PEER. Unpleasant companions these scientists are! With their freethinking ways—— [_To the BOATSWAIN, who is passing._ Hark, a word with you, friend! That passenger? What crazy creature is he? THE BOATSWAIN. I know of no passenger here but yourself. PEER. No others? This thing’s getting worse and worse. [_To the SHIP’S BOY, who comes out of the cabin._ Who went down the companion just now? THE BOY. The ship’s dog, sir! [_Passes on._ THE LOOK-OUT. [_Shouts._] Land close ahead! PEER. Where’s my box? Where’s my trunk? All the baggage on deck! THE BOATSWAIN. We have more to attend to! PEER. It was nonsense, captain! ’Twas only my joke;— As sure as I’m here I will help the cook—— THE CAPTAIN. The jib’s blown away! THE MATE. And there went the foresail! THE BOATSWAIN. [_Shrieks from forward._] Breakers under the bow! THE CAPTAIN. She will go to shivers! [_The ship strikes. Noise and confusion._ SCENE SECOND. _Close under the land, among sunken rocks and surf. The ship sinks. The jolly-boat, with two men in her, is seen for a moment through the scud. A sea strikes her; she fills and upsets. A shriek is heard; then all is silent for a while. Shortly afterwards the boat appears floating bottom upwards._ _PEER GYNT comes to the surface near the boat._ PEER. Help! Help! A boat! Help! I’ll be drowned! Save me, oh Lord—as saith the text! [_Clutches hold of the boat’s keel._ THE COOK. [_Comes up on the other side._] Oh, Lord God—for my children’s sake, Have mercy! Let me reach the land! [_Seizes hold of the keel._ PEER. Let go! THE COOK. Let go!