The cracks between the logs, and all chinks, were sealed with thick layers of mortar; the ceilings, made of stout saplings, were treated in a similar manner, while the roof, resting on a sturdy ridge-pole, and securely anchored, was of three layers of poles, interstices mortared and the whole covered with a vast quantity of seaweed, moss and reeds held in place by several well-fastened sections of iron railing from the decks of the Doraine.
While the huts were uniform in size, shape and construction, there was nothing to prevent the occupant from subsequently enlarging and improving his house.

For the present, however, the interests of all were best served by speed and compactness.
The superintendent of construction was Algernon Adonis Percival.

As a matter of fact, the end of the first week found him occupying the position of General Manager for the whole enterprise, an unsolicited honour but one which he was resolved that no one, great or small, should deride.

He had one stormy "run-in," as he described it, with Mr.
Landover and his group of satellites.

This occurred about the middle of their first week on the island when practically every able-bodied man from the Doraine was at work cutting a way through the forest or in constructing the dock at the water's edge.