Clif's heart was heavy, and he was miserable beyond description.
But he turned and silently followed the sailor to the companionway.
They did not go below at once, however, for just then something occurred that made the sailor stop.
The man who had first spoke to Clif, the captain, apparently, had been sweeping the shore with his glass. And just then he gave a startled exclamation.
Everybody heard him, and the Spanish sailor stopped and turned to look.
Clif was so listless and despairing that he did not take the trouble to do likewise; but when he heard the exclamations of the men he felt his heart give a leap.
They were staring at a man on the shore.
"What in the world can be the matter with that fellow?" cried the captain.
"Santa Maria! he is calling to us!" exclaimed another.
"He must be crazy," declared a third.