Story 1--Chapter XX.
A Discovery.
So far as they had been able to make out, there was no trace of inhabitants near the place where the schooner was moored; but the adventure was of so important a nature that Captain Studwick felt it his duty to keep the most careful watch; and he was not sorry that afternoon to yield to the pressing request of Mr Wilson and the doctor to go on shore with their guns for a couple of hours’ shooting.
“I consent,” he said, “on condition that you are back here by nightfall, and that you take a couple of the men well-armed with you.”
This was agreed to, and the party of four was rowed ashore, Dutch and Mr Parkley both declining to accompany them, on the score of fatigue; while, though John Studwick longed to be of the party, he felt that he was too weak, and watched them from the side, as the boat rowed through the sparkling water, landing the party on the golden sands.
As the boat was returning to the side, the longing to go on shore proved too strong for John Studwick, and he beckoned his sister to his side.
“Bessy,” he said, “I must go and have an hour’s walk under those shady trees, where the sand seems to be so smooth and soft.”
Bessy started, partly at his saddened way of speaking, and partly that he, who seemed to hate the very idea of her being anywhere near Mr Meldon, should propose to go ashore after him.
“You mean alone?” she said, quickly.