fter cabin: a
quadrant, a chart, canvas and rope, sail-maker's needles, twine--indeed,
almost everything they could possibly require. They at once placed,
ready for packing up, the things which were of the most value to them,
such as some of the tools, the quadrant, and chart, a spy-glass, and
other articles. They then, as they were unwilling to remain longer on
board than was necessary, made their way forward. Almost one of the
first objects which their eyes encountered as they examined the fore
hold was a cask of tar, which had been got up apparently for use; there
were also oil, turpentine, white lead, and brushes.

"I only wish we had time and skill, and we might, instead of repairing
our own boat, have built another better fitted for our intended voyage.
Perhaps we could get the vessel off?" suggested Desmond.

"You would not say that if you saw her at high tide, when the water must
flow in and out of her, for her bottom is like a sieve," answered Tom.
"We must not think of launching her, or of building another boat; but we
may improve our craft, so as to make her thoroughly seaworthy."

As the tackles were at hand, they at once hoisted the tar-barrel on
deck; but by this time it was impossible to remain longer on board, and
therefore, doing up the more valuable articles in two parcels, Tom
having first descended, Desmond lowered them over the side to him.
Altogether their packages weighed a good deal; but, delighted with their
acquisition, they trudged along right merrily, hoping to get back before
night.

"We shall astonish them," exclaimed Desmond, "when they see us and the
things we have brought."

They had no little difficulty in getting back, and had frequently to
stop and rest; but eager to join their comrades, they persevered, and at
length, as night closed on them, they caught sight of the welcome fire
under the cliff. Pat had just concocted their potful of turtle soup,
and had some yams roasting in the embers. He and the rest could
scarcely believe their eyes when they saw the treasures Tom and Desmond
had brought. The men were all eager to set off the next day. Tom,
however, determined to go in the boat, as there was a landing-place not
far off, and the weather promised to be fine. Next morning they
accordingly launched their boat, carrying several cocoa-nut shells with
which to bale her out, not forgetting to take also a supply of
provisions.

The wind was off the land, the water smooth;