"And uninhabited," declared Mr. Black, supposing that he was speaking the exact truth, "except for our seven selves."
There was, however, an eighth inhabitant; and a human one at that. But for the time being no one suspected it.
CHAPTER III
A Predicament
"PETER," queried Mrs. Crane, "what time is it? I'm starved."
Mr. Black looked at his watch, at first expectantly, then ruefully.
"The thing's stopped," said he, shaking it. "I dropped it out a couple of times when I was under the Whale, and once it struck a boulder. It stopped at half-past twelve."
"An hour ago?"
"It might be two hours—or even three! Girls, did you bring a watch—any of you?"