he
time the raft quitted the ship, they were both on the raft, as they
wished to consult, as soon as they discovered the direction of the
current, which would be the most advisable course for them to pursue.
It appeared, that as soon as the current had passed the bank, it took a
more southerly direction towards New Guinea. It was then debated
between them whether they should or should not land on that island, the
natives of which were known to be pusillanimous, yet treacherous. A
long debate ensued, which ended, however, in their resolve not to decide
as yet, but wait and see what might occur. In the mean time, the boats
pulled to the westward, while the current set them fast down in a
southerly direction.

Night came on and the boats dropped the grapnels with which they had
been provided; and Philip was glad to find that the current was not near
so strong, and the grapnels held both boats and raft. Covering
themselves up with the spare sails with which they had provided
themselves, and setting a watch, the tired seamen were soon fast asleep.

"Had I not better remain in one of the boats?" observed Krantz.
"Suppose, to save themselves, the boats were to leave the raft."

"I have thought of that," replied Philip, "and have, therefore, not
allowed any provisions or water in the boats; they will not leave us for
that reason."

"True, I had forgotten that."

Krantz remained on watch, and Philip retired to the repose which he so
much needed. Amine met him with open arms.

"I have no fear, Philip," said she; "I rather like this wild,
adventurous change. We will go on shore and build our hut beneath the
cocoa-trees, and I shall repine when the day comes which brings succour,
and releases us from our desert isle. What do I require but you?"

"We are in the hands of One above, dear, who will act with us as He
pleases. We have to be thankful that it is no worse," replied Philip.
"But now to rest, for I shall soon be obliged to watch."

The morning dawned with a smooth sea and a bright blue sky; the raft had
been borne to leeward of the cluster of uninhabited islands of which we
spoke, and was now without hopes of reaching them; but to the westward
were to be seen on the horizon the refracted heads and trunks of
cocoa-nut trees, and in that direction it was resolved that they should
tow the raft. The breakfast had been served out, and the men had taken
to the oars, when they discovered a proa, full of men, sweepi