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Page 357
Beorn, summoned to give his opinion, was not as eager for company that might, after all, be an enemy. He conceded, however, that the complement of men-at-arms aboard was large enough to discourage almost any besides a war galley from attacking. The captain had very similar reservations but, although he knew his ship was not fast, he also knew she was swifter than she looked. He did not wish to lose the chance of gaining companions or, at least, news of where they were. Sail was shortened and all waited, eagerly watching the sails of the oncoming ships grow larger.
To their delight they found the ships to be part of the strayed fleet, but unfortunately the newcomers knew no better where they were. Now, however, they were strong enough to turn away or fight off any pirate or enemy vessel; they sailed forward cheerfully enough for another three days. On the next evening the wind began to freshen. Instead of dropping as the sun set, it grew stronger still. Again they ran, helpless before the wind. This time, however, after full dark enveloped them, the lookout shouted down from his perch on the mast that he saw a light.
Painfully aware of his precious cargo, the captain was torn with doubts. A light seen from that distance could only be a beacon fire set to signal a safe harbor, but harbors in the precipitous isles of the Mediterranean were too often surrounded by dangerous rocky arms. Incautious approach might bring disaster instead of safety. As much as he desired a safe haven from the storm that seemed to be worsening and some certitude that he would not sail off the end of the world, the captain ordered that sail be shortened still more. He shouted warnings as he saw the other ships pulling ahead, but the rush of the wind and the crack of the sail drowned him out.
Beorn was also uneasy. Of the Mediterranean he knew nothing beyond the fact that more enemies than friends lived on its shores and islands. He too desired

 
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