“If you are strong enough to accompany me to the other side of the island, friend, where I have my home, we will set off at once; but if not, I will go back and get some food for you,” he said.
“I shall soon be better,” answered the man. “I think I could walk. Have you a companion with you?”
“No,” answered Humphry, surprised at the question; “I am all alone.”
“That’s strange! What, isn’t there a young lad somewhere about the island?”
“No,” said Humphry. “I have been here three years and have seen no human being.”
The man gazed into his countenance with a look of astonishment.
“What is your name, then?” he asked.
Humphry mentioned it.
“You Mr Gurton!” he cried, pressing his hand. “I suppose it must be; and don’t you know me?”
Humphry looked into the man’s face. It was covered with a thick beard, and his tangled hair hung over his shoulders.