hunted about under the trees and found several other cocoa-nuts
which had fallen, and though not equal to those which were less ripe,
they were sufficient to satisfy hunger and support life. Having thus
obtained the means of subsistence, I bethought me that the next wisest
thing to do would be to build a hut. I had been greatly tormented by
mosquitoes and sandflies, and I thought by going a little way into the
interior I might avoid them. On searching I discovered a large rock
within which was a cave. Here I thought I might find shelter, and at
the same time light a fire, the smoke of which might keep off my
tormentors. As I had but little clothing, and found the night, after
the heat of the day, chilly--though, probably, in England it would have
been considered intensely hot--I determined to build a front to my cave,
so that I might keep out the night air, and at the same time any
unwelcome intruders. The cave was in a peculiarly sheltered spot; and,
indeed, had I been in search of such a retreat, I do not think I should
have discovered it.

I cut down a number of bamboos, and these I placed close together in
front of the cave, leaving only a narrow opening through which I could
pass. I strengthened the interior by cross pieces, thus leaving only
room to creep under. The door I also formed of bamboo, which I could
shut closely. I thus hoped that I might not only keep out any large
animals, but snakes or reptiles, which might be inclined to get in. I
made a torch of dry wood, with which I surveyed my cave, carefully
examining every hole and crevice. I discovered several bats, which I
soon put to flight. Had I been very hungry, I should probably have
killed them for food; but while I saw a prospect of obtaining cocoa-nuts
and crabs, I was not reduced to such an extremity.

I little thought at the time of what importance this hiding-place would
be to me. It took me some time to scrape out the dirt on the ground,
and it was almost dark before I had finished the operation. I managed,
however, to collect some leaves and branches with which to form my bed.
I had only time to eat a piece of cocoa-nut and crab for supper before
darkness came on. I then lighted my torch, and with the smoke managed
to drive away all the mosquitoes, and then shut to my door. Closely,
however, as I had placed the bamboos, the creatures quickly came back
again; and I had to start up and strike a light and make some more
smoke, in o