It was evident that he had not abandoned all hope.

The presentiments which had troubled Herbert did not cease to agitate him also.

His thoughts were concentrated on Neb.

Why had Neb not returned?
He tossed about on his sandy couch, scarcely giving a thought to the struggle of the elements.

Now and then, his eyes, heavy with fatigue, closed for an instant, but some sudden thought reopened them almost immediately.
Meanwhile the night advanced, and it was perhaps two hours from morning, when Pencroft, then sound asleep, was vigorously shaken.
"What's the matter ?" he cried, rousing himself, and collecting his ideas with the promptitude usual to seamen.
The reporter was leaning over him, and saying,-- "Listen, Pencroft, listen!" The sailor strained his ears, but could hear no noise beyond those caused by the storm.
"It is the wind," said he.
"No," replied Gideon Spilett, listening again, "I thought I heard--" "What ?" "The barking of a dog!" "A dog!" cried Pencroft, springing up.
"Yes--barking--" "It's not possible!" replied the sailor.