I returned just before nightfall from a vain search; Mr.Smith had been equally unsuccessful in his digging operations, and we thus had to lie down upon the sand parched with thirst, our only chance of forgetting our misfortunes being a few minutes sleep.
THE BOATS NEARLY READY.
March 2.
The men continued working hard at the boats, and it appeared that their task would be concluded this day.

I once more started to look for water and to examine the island; but our search was again unsuccessful.

On measuring the distance that the sea had risen I found that it had spread up in the direction of our boats fifty-three yards above high water mark; but what will give a better idea of the hurricane is the circumstance of my catching a cormorant on the beach, about seven o'clock on the morning of the 1st, and during the height of the storm, the bird not even attempting to fly, being in appearance completely appalled at the violence of the wind.

It was reported to me at night that another hour's work in the morning would render the boats fit for sea.
Sunday March 3.
The men had slept but little during the night for they were oppressed with thirst; and when I rose in the morning I saw evident symptoms of the coming of another roasting day.

They were busy at the boats as soon as they could see to work, whilst Mr.Smith and myself ascended the cliffs to get a view towards the main.