"It is more than likely."
"There is still argument about these tidal waves, sir, but the consensus of the best opinion is that they are caused by subsea earthquake shocks. Such a shock may have struck the island, broken the barrier, torn down the cliff wall."
"Is this the island that has sheltered Beekman?"
"Must have been. There is no other hereabouts."
"It will be uninhabited, then."
"That's as may be," answered the old sailor, lifting his glance to take in the upland, which was now clearly visible through the enormous rift, which looked as if it might have been made by an avalanche or landslide, and down which the tumbling, dashing stream of water sparkled like silver in the light of the declining sun.
"I don't see any smoke or any evidence of life," observed Maynard, following his example.
"If the charts are true, this island hasn't been visited in the memory of man, and a ship as near as this one is would be a sight to arouse the curiosity of any native. They ought to be on the cliffs watching for us if there are any," said the captain.
"On the other hand, they might think it is some kind of god or devil and be in hiding."
"Well, we will soon know," said the captain.