As a matter of fact, Jack was not greatly distressed by the loss of the barque. What had impressed him much more seriously was the terrible end of the men with whom he had been so long associated, and whose cold-blooded murders had made such a lasting impression on his mind, since among a small body of men, cooped up together on board ship, the loss of a single life is keenly regretted long after his belongings have been put up to auction.
An examination of the wreck showed that the sea did not quite reach the deck, and as it remained dry and cool the Chinamen were housed forward, and as the forecastle had been almost destroyed by the fire the crew was permitted to live aft. None of the hands seemed to think the position worthy of much remark, and settled down comfortably in their new quarters, as though nothing particularly exciting had occurred.
The long-boat, which was towing astern when the barque took the ground, received no injury, and as she was in good condition all necessary stores could be speedily removed. The two quarter-boats were also lowered and secured alongside.
After supper, lots were drawn for the night watching, and about eight o'clock the others turned in.
Next morning the work of salving the stores began. The three boats were in constant movement between the wreck and the beach, while under the orders of Mr. Statten the Chinamen set to work erecting tents, by means of the spars and sails landed.
'We dare not trust the old barque,' Captain Thorne said. 'If a gale from the westward arose, she would be soon broken up.'
Jack was placed in charge of one boat, and for some days he was busily employed.
All the rifles and ammunition were sent ashore, even before any of the provisions, for although the island appeared uninhabited, the skipper deemed it advisable to be prepared for all contingencies, until a thorough investigation proved that no anxiety need be entertained.
When the second mate had selected a good camping-ground he and the emigrants soon rigged up very respectable tents, the Chinamen being accommodated in one set apart for their exclusive use.
The stores that were stowed in the cabin of the barque were in good condition; but most unfortunately all the beef and pork casks had been so securely stowed in the hold that they could neither float to the surface nor be reached by the crew. On the other hand, the two 'harness-casks,' in which a fortnight's supply of meat was kept on deck, happened to be full, and they were put ashore. The big water-tank had not been injured by the grounding of the vessel, and it was three parts full. There was also a spring of excellent drinking water discovered on the island.