id. "What is to be done?"

"Why, we must go off at all risks, and see if we cannot get materials
from the wreck to form a still. The ship struck at high water, I
observed, and possibly what we want, even though washed out of her, may
be obtained at low water. Will you go off with me to make the search?"

I, of course, agreed, and the second mate steered the lifeboat. A fresh
crew was quickly found, and we put off from the bank.

"Another night may see the wreck broken up, and we may lose everything,"
observed the surgeon. We pulled on. The wreck had by this time driven
up so far on the reef that at dead low water part of the coral rock was
exposed, and we could wade up to her. We hunted about till we came upon
some copper piping. "This is valuable," exclaimed the surgeon. We next
found a boiler, and afterwards a large cistern, still inside the vessel.
We got it out, though not without difficulty, and on board the boat.
Several tools, an iron ladle and some solder were also found; indeed, we
regretted that the jolly-boat had not come off, that many more things
might have been landed. All we could hope was that the weather would
continue moderate, and that other articles might be saved on the
following day. We returned in safety with our prize. As soon as we
landed, the surgeon summoned the blacksmith and his mate to his
assistance, and a fire being lighted, immediately set to work to erect a
still. A shout of joy was raised when the first fresh water was seen to
issue from it. We lay down that night with one of our chief causes of
anxiety removed. "We may thank God for this," said the master,
summoning all the people round him. "Now I have a proposal to make. It
is clear we cannot remain on this reef for ever. I wish to know whether
those who are fit to assist in the work will undertake the building of a
boat, in which we may reach the mainland." A considerable number held
up their hands to signify their readiness to assist in what he proposed.
"Then, my friends," he said, "I will divide you into three parties--one
to assist Mr Gilbert in distilling the water, another to visit the
wreck and obtain all the materials which can be saved, while the third
will be employed in building the boat." All agreed to this proposal,
and early next morning, as soon as daylight broke, we were on our feet
ready to commence work. I was employed with the second mate in going
off to the wreck, while the first mate and t