Fritz, Frank, and Jenny were clasped to the hearts of M. and Mme. Zermatt and covered with kisses; James, Dolly, Susan, and Bob were unable to extricate themselves from the embraces of Mr. and Mrs. Wolston; and much hand-shaking was exchanged with Captain Gould and the boatswain.
Then they had to exchange stories of the fifteen months which had passed since the day when the Unicorn disappeared behind the heights of False Hope Point, bearing away Jenny Montrose, Fritz, Frank, and Dolly.
But before recalling all these past events, it was necessary to talk of the present.
For although they were reunited now, the two families were none the less in a serious and perilous position. The savages must ultimately become masters of this island when the ammunition and provisions were exhausted, unless help came. And whence could M. Zermatt and his people expect help?
First of all Fritz told briefly the story of the Flag’s castaways.
“And where are the savages?” Fritz asked, as he came to the end of telling how they had seen the savages.
“At Rock Castle,” M. Zermatt replied.
“Many of them?”
“A hundred at least; they came in fifteen pirogues—probably from the Australian coast.”
“Thank God you were able to escape from them!” Jenny exclaimed.