It was a sort of consolation to think they were together; but how many mortal fears accompanied this consolation! Oh! was I ever to see again these objects of my tenderest affection! Certain now that they were not in the island, I was impatient for the return of my sons, and I made every preparation for our departure.

The first thing I thought of was the wrecked chest, which would furnish me with means to conciliate the savages, and to ransom my loved ones.

I added to it everything likely to tempt them; utensils, stuffs, trinkets; I even took with me gold and silver coin, which was thrown on one side as useless, but might be of service to us on this occasion.

I wished my riches were three times as much as they were, that I might give all in exchange for the life and liberty of my wife and son.

I then turned my thoughts on those remaining to me: I took, in bags and gourds, all that we had left of cassava-bread, manioc-roots, and potatoes; a barrel of salt-fish, two bottles of rum, and several jars of fresh water.