It appeared that while attempting the passage of Torres Strait his vessel had been wrecked, and out of a full company of twenty hands he alone had survived.
Neither he nor the natives could explain what had become of the others; but those competent to form an opinion believed that they had been speared and eaten by the cannibals.
Jack enjoyed a splendid night's rest, the first he had had between white linen sheets since leaving home, and after breakfast next morning the 'liberty' men prepared to return to their ship. The stream was now in their favour, and the 'Silver Crown' was reached in less than half the time occupied on the upward journey.
Charlie Wilton and the remaining half of the starboard watch next went ashore. From what he had already said, Jack was not surprised to find that Charlie did not return, and he was not again seen. Of the four apprentices who had left Stonewell, two, Archer and Clewlin, alone remained, and even they were soon parted.
The clipper received orders to proceed to Bombay for a homeward freight of cotton. All the canvas was immediately 'bent,' and tacks, sheets, bunt-lines, and reef-tackles were rove off.
When those sailing preparations were completed a wholly unexpected turn of affairs suddenly placed young Jack in considerable difficulty, and occasioned him much anxiety.
Captain Thorne had been medically advised not to visit India, since, only two voyages before, he had contracted a dangerous illness at Bombay.
After long deliberation with his two officers, all three men had agreed to exchange places with the master and mates of a smaller vessel, belonging to the same firm, then in the bay.
She was only half the size of the clipper, and had come out with cargo, but she was nearly ready to sail for Newcastle, N.S.W., there to load coal for Java.
At last Jack decided to consult his old friend Readyman.