"
"While we've got any provisions left," said the boatswain, "let us
take the boats, and pull out to sea. We can go where the ships are,
and then we'll have some chance. They'll never find us here,
leastways, such is my opinion."
"My friends," said the mate, "you have heard the proposal made by the
boatswain. All who are in favor of it will please raise their right
hand."
All voted in the affirmative.
"My friends," said Mr. Holdfast, "it seems to be the unanimous
sentiment that we leave the island, and sail out far enough to be in
the course of passing vessels. I concur in the expediency of this
step, and am ready to command one of the boats. Mr, Harrison will
command the other."
"How soon shall we start?" asked a passenger.
"The sooner the better! To-morrow morning, if it is pleasant."
This decision pleased all. Something was to be done, and hope was
rekindled in the breasts of all. Heretofore they had been living on,
without hope or prospect of release. Now they were to set out boldly,
and though there was the possibility of failure, there was also a
chance of deliverance.
No sooner was the decision made than all hands went to work to prepare
for embarking.
In the appointment of passengers, Mr. Holdfast, who commanded the long
boat, retained Harry, the professor and Clinton.
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