He permitted himself the luxury of a wintry smile.
"Pray, do not misunderstand me," he said.

"I am humane as most others, but it is difficult to decide whether or not mere humanity, setting aside self-interest, would not rather condemn you to the speedy death of the wreck than drag you to the worse fate that awaits you here.

And please remember that we did succor you, thus risking observation and a visit by the troops when the sea permits a landing.

But that is not the true issue.

An hour ago there were four people on this bare rock--four of us who looked for escape to-night.