Pencroft only saw traces of quadrupeds, fresh footprints of animals, of which he could not recognize the species.

In all probability, and such was also Herbert's opinion, some had been left by formidable wild beasts which doubtless would give them some trouble; but nowhere did they observe the mark of an axe on the trees, nor the ashes of a fire, nor the impression of a human foot.

On this they might probably congratulate themselves, for on any land in the middle of the Pacific the presence of man was perhaps more to be feared than desired.

Herbert and Pencroft speaking little, for the difficulties of the way were great, advanced very slowly, and after walking for an hour they had scarcely gone more than a mile.
As yet the hunt had not been successful.

However, some birds sang and fluttered in the foliage, and appeared very timid, as if man had inspired them with an instinctive fear.