Page 11 - Alone on an Island

The boat was hauled up, and the men quickly landed the various articles which Ned had secured for
Humphry's benefit.

He and Humphry searching about soon found a level spot on one side of the bay where the ground looked
capable of cultivation.

"This will do for you, my lad," said Ned. "And as I found some papers of seed in the captain's cabin, I put
them into one of the casks; though I don't know what they are, maybe if you sow them they will come up, and
supply you with vegetables."

The men now brought up all the things from the boat. They all wished him good luck and a happy life on the
island, and then hurried back to the boat.

"I only wish I could stop with you, that I do!" exclaimed Ned with some feeling, as he wrung Humphry's
hand. "I dare not say 'God bless you!' but I hope He will, that I do with all my heart," and Ned ran down to
join his companions, who were already shoving off the boat. He would not have been sorry if they had gone
without him.

Humphry watched them going down the bay. They passed through the reef, and pulled out to sea till the boat
was lost to sight, though he could distinguish the ship hove to in the offing waiting for her return.