The parchment was correct in the main details, as to the records within the cave, but there were no treasure, nor could any trace be found of them. They spent several days in the search, but to no avail. The boys were not much disappointed, it may be said, but they were gratified to know that John had accomplished the one desire of his life, and they knew, also, that it would be a source of great joy to the Professor.
It was found that the cave entrance at the opposite side of the hill was the northern outlet to the same set of caverns, and Ephraim did not know of any others that existed in the northern part, so that they did not feel it to be desirable to take up more time in this direction.
They had now found two isles, besides their own loved island, and when they assembled that evening[p. 167] in the cabin of the Pioneer, they had a most earnest conversation as to the results of their latest enterprise.
"We have sought the treasures of the islands, and what have we accomplished?" asked George.
"What have we accomplished? I have been thinking that to find the natives here, and to be able to help them, is a pretty big thing in itself," answered Harry.
"That is true," he responded, "and the same thing might be said, also, about the wonderful products of the islands; they are certainly worth coming here for. I wonder what Blakely would say if he knew of all there is here, and the knack shown by the natives to handle the things?"
"I am in sympathy with your views," said John. "Treasures, like gold and silver, are worth seeking for, but when you find that the earth is inviting people to till it, and there are people who, through ignorance, do not know how the earth can be utilized, it is a great privilege to be able to help them, and the recollection of what you have done will be the greatest treasure not only to you but to the poor people that have been benefited."
"I think Ephraim's story is a wonderful one," said George, "but he could not go far. His education was limited, but see what he has done with the little he knew."
"It was curious, however, that the cannibals had fear for him. I cannot understand that," rejoined Harry.
"Savages are children only. They have the capacities of full grown men, but have never had the[p. 168] opportunities. Their superstitions lead them into singular forms of reasonings. With them the deformed are objects of curiosity, and generally, of reverence. Those mentally deficient are regarded as possessing a superior spirit."