Towards the end of the two hours the noise of the steam escaping from the boilers seemed to absorb and eclipse every other sound.
Sleep, however, seemed to be impossible, and for the greater part of the two hours and more that elapsed before the time for starting, Rivers, seated in the deck saloon with his eyes closed, listened to the sound of the rain on the deck and the rattle of the steam-winch as the cargo was lowered into the hold.  Towards the end of the two hours the noise of the steam escaping from the boilers seemed to absorb and eclipse every other sound.  Presently the first bell for departure rang, with a noisy and protracted clamour.