Was the island inhabited? By whom? What was the character of the
natives, and what sort of reception would they meet when found? These
were the questions which engaged their thoughts as they stood on that
lonely beach, hoping against hope, and every minute fancying some
friendly sail heaving in sight to relieve them from their perilous
position. After the darkest night comes the brightest day. This was ever
uppermost in Tite's mind, and he endeavored to impress its teachings on
the minds of his companions, who were fast yielding to their fears, and
would have given up in despair had not his stronger resolution
encouraged them still to hope for deliverance.
There was an abundance of small shell-fish along the coast, and on these
they subsisted. It was agreed to remain near the boat during the day, as
a precaution against an attack from the natives, who might have seen
them approach the coast, and perhaps be watching their movements near
by. But the day passed and not a human being was seen. At nightfall a
couple of goats and a pig, and some fowl that appeared to be keeping
them company, emerged from a thicket on a hillside, descended into a
valley or ravine, and drank in the brook.
Pages:
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298
299
300
301
302
303
304
305
306
307
308
309
310
311
312
313
314
315