Landing the passengers, Holdfast selected Jack and
Harry, and went back to the ship for a further supply.
"We must lay in as much as we can, for we don't know how long we are
to remain here," he said.
When the second trip had been made, it was decided to rest for a time
and eat breakfast.
The little group gathered on a bluff looking out to sea, and, sitting
down, ate heartily. By this time the sun had made its appearance, and
it bade fair to be a pleasant day.
"Have you any idea where we are, Mr. Holdfast?" asked Mr. Stubbs.
"I only know that we are on an island. There is no mainland near
here," answered the commander.
"It seems to be a large one, then. While you were gone with the boys,
I ascended a tree, and, looking inland, could not see the ocean in
that direction."
"I feel like exploring the island," said Harry; "who will go with me?"
Curious to see what kind of a new home they had, all set out. First,
however, the professor asked:
"How long before the ship is likely to go to pieces, Mr. Holdfast?"
"Not under a day or two in this weather," was the answer. "Later in
the day I will board her again."
They struck inland and walked for about two miles. There were trees
and plants such as they had never seen before, and the songs of
unknown birds floated out upon the air.
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