But what was that at its base?
Seemingly, a little knot of men stood at the water's edge.

As we drew nearer I could distinguish their forms but not their occupation, for they stood in a circle, intent on some object in their midst concealed from our view.

Presently, however, they fell into a rough line as though making for the archway to Ready-Money Cove.

Something they carried among them, and continually stooped over; but what it was I could not see.

Their pace was very slow, but they turned into the arch and were disappearing, when I caught sight of the uncouth little figure of Joe Roscorla among the last, and ran forward, hailing him by name.
At the sound of my voice Joe started, turned round and made a slow pause; then, with a few words to his neighbour, came quickly towards me.