"On board, sir. I noticed a couple in the fo'c'sle. You see, a seaman has to make his own duds."
"Very well, I'll put off the job till to-morrow, if you'll remember to bring one of the things ashore."
"Any need to keep watch to-night, pater?" asked Andy.
"I think it would be advisable till we've explored the island. Not that I anticipate any interference, but forewarned is forearmed."
Mr. McKay's words proved to be correct. Nothing occurred to disturb the camp during the second night ashore.
"Do you think that Terence and you can manage by yourselves?" asked Mr. McKay during breakfast.
"I think so," replied Ellerton.
"Then Andy can take Quexo and make an exploration of the interior. I particularly want him to reach the summit of the hill, so as to find out if there are other islands in the vicinity."
"You understand, Andy?" continued his father. "Keep a sharp look-out for signs of past or present inhabitants, any animals you may come across—there may be a few pigs—and, above all, note the general extent of the island and the position of its neighbours, if visible. Don't overburden yourselves; a revolver and twenty rounds apiece, a water-bottle, and some provisions will be quite enough to carry. Rest on the summit of the hill during the heat of the day, and get back here well before sunset."
Having seen the explorers on their way, Ellerton and Donaghue pushed off the cutter and rowed to the wreck.