The party were allowed to go on shore without even promising to return, and the heart of each beat high with the prospect of liberty before them.
Professor Woddle explained that they might traverse the country nearby, and so get to some port, but the journey would be perilous in the extreme.
His advice was to camp in the wood, obtain fresh provisions, and await the course of events.
Stump alone was in doubt.
"The captain," he remarked, "is a wonderful man, and knows perfectly well what he is about. He has told us we shall never again set our feet on civilized ground, has he not?"
"Yes. Everyone knows that," answered the professor.
"He'll keep his word, and I'll bet a new hat we are on board again to-morrow, or perhaps to-day."
"I'll take you," replied Mont, "though how the bet is to be paid I don't know, as there are no hat shops on board the boat."
"I'd give something to find out all about our skipper," said Carl. "He is the most curious beggar I ever met. All four of us are not a match for him."
"Speak for yourself, my young but still intelligent friend," answered the professor. "Time will show."