We abandoned our convenient, I had almost said luxurious lodgings beneath the boat on the beach, and, with my chest and what other baggage we possessed, joyfully transferred our quarters to the forecastle of the brig Gustavus.
We remained on board the brig about a fortnight, faithfully and steadily at work, stowing cargo, repairing and setting up the rigging, and bending sails.

We congratulated ourselves, from time to time, on our good fortune in securing such a chance, after so much disappointment and delay.
But one morning I was alarmed at finding Strictland had been suddenly attacked with violent headache and other symptoms of fever.

The mate gave him some medicine, but he continued unwell.

In the afternoon the captain came on board, and after a conference with the mate, called me to the quarter-deck, and told me my companion was sick; that he did not like sick people; and the sooner I took him ashore, the better for all parties.

"The brig," he continued, "is now ready for sea.