e to the naked eye. Thus I
came to know that the beautiful phosphoric light, which I had so often
admired before, was caused by animals, for I had no doubt that these were
of the same kind as the medusae or jelly-fish which are seen in all parts
of the world.

On the evening of my fourteenth day, I was awakened out of a nap into
which I had fallen by a loud cry, and starting up, I gazed around me. I
was surprised and delighted to see a large albatross soaring majestically
over the ship. I immediately took it into my head that this was the
albatross I had seen at Penguin Island. I had, of course, no good reason
for supposing this, but the idea occurred to me, I know not why, and I
cherished it, and regarded the bird with as much affection as if he had
been an old friend. He kept me company all that day and left me as night
fell.

Next morning as I stood motionless and with heavy eyes at the helm, for I
had not slept well, I began to weary anxiously for day-light, and peered
towards the horizon, where I thought I observed something like a black
cloud against the dark sky. Being always on the alert for squalls, I ran
to the bow. There could be no doubt it was a squall, and as I listened I
thought I heard the murmur of the coming gale. Instantly I began to work
might and main at my cumbrous tackle for shortening sail, and in the
course of an hour and a half had the most of it reduced,--the top-sail
yards down on the caps, the top-sails clewed up, the sheets hauled in,
the main and fore peaks lowered, and the flying-jib down. While thus
engaged the dawn advanced, and I cast an occasional furtive glance ahead
in the midst of my labour. But now that things were prepared for the
worst, I ran forward again and looked anxiously over the bow. I now
heard the roar of the waves distinctly, and as a single ray of the rising
sun gleamed over the ocean I saw--what! could it be that I was
dreaming?--that magnificent breaker with its ceaseless roar!--that
mountain top!--yes, once more I beheld the Coral Island!

CHAPTER XXIX.

The effect of a cannon-shot--A happy reunion of a somewhat moist
nature--Retrospects and explanations--An awful dive--New plans--The last
of the Coral Island.

I almost fell upon the deck with the tumult of mingled emotions that
filled my heart, as I gazed ardently towards my beautiful island. It was
still many miles away, but sufficiently near to enable me to trace
distinctly the well-rem