John trudged by the canal with his hands in his pockets, his head bowed to the wind and rain. Ahead of him in the darkness the team of horses bowed their necks against their collars. The strain of pulling a canal boat was difficult. John could not see them in the darkness. When he lifted his face, the rain cut at his eyes. And when lightning split the darkness, he shut his eyes tight and pulled his head closer into his coat collar, waiting blindly for the thunder. Once in a lull he looked back. Somewhere back of the boat light his father stood by the rudder, his beard curled and wet, his eyes slits. John wanted to go back. He wanted to tie-up for the night. He wanted to be in the bunk with his head buried in the blankets where the storm could not reach him. He had gone back once, but his father had reached for his belt, saying, "Go on back. Water never hurt a man. It keeps his hide from cracking."

Q. Underline at least three expressions which provide a dark, stormy atmosphere for the scene.