I forbade my sons to mention this event, or our suspicions, to their mother, as I knew it would rob her of all peace of mind.

I tried to console myself.

It was possible that chance had conducted them to the Bay, that they had seen our pretty canoe, and that, satisfied with their prize, and seeing no inhabitants, they might not return.

Perhaps, on the contrary, these islanders might prove kind and humane, and become our friends.

There was no trace of their proceedings further than the shore.