Thus far the boys had had no chance to explore their new home, but the first thing the next morning they determined to do so. A plunge in the waters of the little bay put every one in good humor. No one went very far out, however, for in spite of the fact that they knew there was slight chance of any shark venturing anywhere so near the shore, the knowledge that the giants were lurking not far away cured every desire to swim out any distance.
Sam decided he would not join the exploring party. He had an idea that he would be very much better off, dozing in the sun at the foot of some palm tree. The four boys separated, Fred and Grant going together, and John and George pairing off.
“You two go one way,” directed Grant, “and we’ll go the other. If we follow the shore we’ll meet around on the other side of the island somewhere.”
“All right,” agreed John. “We’ll see you later.”
“After we see what the shore of the island is like, I say we explore the interior,” said George, as he and John walked off down the beach.
“That’s what I say,” exclaimed John. “That part looks more interesting.”
“It does to me, too. There are lots of birds here.”
“Do you know the names of them?”
“No, I don’t. All I know is that they are certainly beautiful. Look at that one there,” exclaimed George suddenly, as there was a flash of scarlet showing for an instant among the trees to their left.
“I wonder if there are any parrots here.”