“I say, Gerald, we must get our trip some way or other,” said Tom to Desmond. “You’d be the better for a run ashore, and I’m sure, if you suggested the idea to the doctor, he will say so, and get Mr Mildmay to let us have a boat.”
Gerald followed Tom’s advice.
“Of course, my boy,” answered the good-natured doctor; “if you find anything curious, remember to bring it off for me.”
“That I will, sir,” said Tom.
The doctor having spoken to the first lieutenant, Tom went up boldly and asked for the use of the jolly-boat.
“You can have her; but remember you must be on board again in good time,” answered Mr Mildmay.
Tom and his party were quickly ready, carrying some fishing-lines, as well as some baskets to bring off any wild fruit they might happen to find. Tom and Gerald were below making their preparations, when Billy Blueblazes came out of the gun-room.
“Holloa!” he exclaimed; “I’ve got leave to go with you. I suppose you’ll take some grub?”
“We’ll be afther finding that on shore,” answered Desmond; “game, or fish, and fruit. I propose we carry a couple of muskets; we shall be sure to find something or other.”
“Elephants or rhinoceroses,” suggested Billy.