The sails are holding- barely. The wind and waves kept tossing the ship, and soon hands were called aloft- had to be- to pull in more sails before the wind could pull one of the masts off the ship.

Dangerous, yes- But what needs to be done, must be done, or else-

So hands aloft into the rigging, life lines tied securely. And through the water and wind, as they work to get the sail pulled and tied while keeping their grips on the ropes, Wellard risks a glance to the storm-swept horizon. He can see two of Norrington's ships still there, before the waves rise and obscure even that.

And even if they are trying to flee him and the navy, he includes them in his prayers for safety.

The sea does not take sides.