Page:Adrift in the Pacific, Sampson Low, 1889.djvu/174

 and the mystery of Rock's disappearance was soon solved by his being found in one of Wilcox's traps, which soon served for the grave of all three mutineers.

When Evans returned with the news that the colony had now nothing to fear, the joy would have been complete, had not Donagan been so grievously wounded. But none could help hoping.

In the morning there was a discussion as to future plans. It was evident that the first thing to be done was to take possession of the boat. That necessitated a voyage and even a sojourn at Bear Rock where the repairs would have to be made to get her seaworthy. And it was agreed that Evans, Briant, and Baxter, should cross by way of the lake and East River, which was at once the safest and shortest way.

The yawl had been recovered in one of the backwaters of the river. The men had fallen out of her and been carried away out to sea, and she had been almost unhurt by Moko's volley which had passed just over her. She was brought back to French Den and loaded with tools and provisions, and with a favourable wind, she was off on the 6th of December in Evans's charge.

She was soon across the lake, and before half-past eleven, Briant pointed out the creek by which the river entered. Running down with the tide, she was soon down the river, and on the sand near Bear Rock they found the Severn boat high and dry.

After a careful examination, Evans reported as follows : —

"We have the needful tools, but we want timber for the ribs and planking. Now at French Den, you have the remains of the schooner which would work in admirably. And if we could get the boat round to Zealand River — "

"Which I am afraid is impossible," said Briant.

"I don't think so," continued Evans. "If the boat can be got from Severn Shore to Bear Rock, why can't it be got from Bear Rock to Zealand River? We could