Page:Dave Porter on Cave Island.djvu/268

250 "Maybe it's the ship that was coming back for those Englishmen," went on Merwell, for Dave had told him about the men. He heaved a mountainous sigh as he realized how affairs had turned against him. For a moment he thought of running away and trying to find Jasniff, but then the darkness and loneliness of the forest appalled him. He felt that he would rather be a prisoner than be alone in such a spot.

Dave watched the waving light for some time, as it rose and fell on the bosom of the ocean, but could learn nothing concerning the craft that showed it. Then he continued to look around the island. No campfire was to be located, and finally he rejoined Merwell.

"The light on that ship was all I saw," he said. "Perhaps it might pay to walk down to the shore in that direction. But it is a long distance, and in the darkness we might fall into another of the caves."

"Let us stay here," answered Merwell.

"It will probably be as well. We can build a campfire and dry our clothing and then go to bed."

"Wish I had something to eat," grumbled the lad who had been caught.

"So do I, Link. But we haven't anything, so we'll have to make the best of it. Try to find some firewood. Luckily I have a waterproof