Hereupon the hermit and Moses performed an operation on the canoe which still further aroused Nigel's surprise and curiosity.

He resolved to ask no questions, however, but to await the issue of events.
From the marvellous hold of the canoe, which seemed to be a magazine for the supply of every human need, Moses drew a short but strong rope or cable, with a ring in the middle of it, and a hook at each end.

He passed one end along to his master who hooked it to the bridle-rope at the bow before referred to.

The other end was hooked to the bridle in the stern, so that the ring in the centre came close to Nigel's elbow.
This arrangement had barely been completed when the steamer was within hail, but no hail was given, for the captain knew what was expected of him.

He reduced speed as the vessel approached the canoe, and finally came almost to a stop as he ranged alongside.
"What cheer, Van der Kemp?
D'ye want a lift to-day ?" shouted the skipper, looking over the side.
A nod and a wave of the hand was the hermit's reply.
"Heave a rope, boys--bow and stern--and lower away the tackle," was the skipper's order.
A coil was flung to Van der Kemp, who deftly caught it and held on tight.