e
was more likely to catch birds in the morning when they came down to
feed, than at other times in the day. It took him, however, some time
to collect the nuts and other fallen fruits on which the birds fed. As
he was thus employed, he counted several different species, mostly of
beautiful plumage, while a number of monkeys played on the boughs above
his head, chattering furiously, as if to ask him where he came from.

"If the birds fly away, I shall be able to catch some of you fellows, at
all events," he said, looking up at them. "I have heard say that some
people do eat monkeys, though I would rather have any other meat. I'd
sooner have one of those deer or hogs I see scampering away there;
though, as I have not much chance of finding a gun and powder, I must
make a crossbow and arrows. I used to shoot pretty well with one; if I
can get the right sort of wood I have no doubt I could make one that
would carry fifty yards or so, and I dare say that I should be able to
kill some of those fellows, by lying in ambush, or creeping up to them.
I'm sure, at all events, that I can knock over as many monkeys as I
require." Having set his traps, he ate the remainder of his pigeon and
some of the dough cakes, which he washed down with a draught of pure
water.

He then began on his cot. He might have made a hammock with far less
difficulty, but it would require more space to hang than his hut
afforded, and would not be altogether so comfortable as a cot.

With two long poles and two short ones for the head and foot, he formed
a framework, to which he secured canvas. Then fastening on the
knittles, he secured a couple of blocks to the rafters of the hut, and
thus formed a satisfactory sleeping-place.

With some of the cloth he made a pillow and mattress, which he stuffed
with dried leaves, while another piece of cloth served as a coverlid of
sufficient thickness for that climate. "I shall want a table and stool,
and I must see if I can find any plates and dishes, mugs, or a
saucepan." He very soon had fallen into the habit of talking to
himself.

The day was wearing on. He had seen nothing of Lord Reginald nor of
Neptune. He was surprised that the dog had not paid him a visit, but
concluded that he had found sufficient food for himself and his master,
or that he would certainly have done so. Dick accordingly began to plan
his canoe. He had found pencils and paper in the well-stored
carpenter's chest. He drew