Slowly the cutter was backed in till its sternpost stuck on the smooth, even bottom.
The castaways could not have chosen a better harbour. On either hand the rocks, smooth and flat-topped, allowed a boat to be moored alongside without danger of being left high and dry at low water, while the ledge shelved so gradually that it was possible to bring the boat's gunwale level with the natural pier at any state of the tide.
"I think we had better make a tour of exploration as we did before," said Andy. "Not that I think this part of the island is inhabited any more than yonder bay."
"Say, Andy," exclaimed Terence, "isn't it about time I had a spell ashore?"
"All right, Terence," replied Ellerton. "You go with Andy and take Quexo; I'll stay with Mr. McKay."
"Thanks, Hoppy," replied Terence, and without further ado he jumped ashore.
"Here, take this rope and make her stern fast before you go," said Ellerton. "And you, Andy, stand by with the painter."
"Where shall I make fast to?" asked Terence. "This rock is as smooth as a table."
"See if there's a lump of rock on the other side."
Terence crossed the landing-place, holding the rope's-end in his hand. Suddenly he shouted: