But we were neither
unbound nor allowed to speak to each other during the voyage, nor was a
morsel of food or a draught of water given to us. For food, however, we
cared little; but we would have given much for a drop of water to cool
our parched lips, and we would have been glad, too, had they loosened
the cords that bound us, for they were tightly fastened and occasioned
us much pain. The air, also, was unusually hot, so much so that I felt
convinced that a storm was brewing. This also added to our sufferings.
However, these were at length relieved by our arrival at the island
from which we had fled.
While we were being led ashore, we caught a glimpse of Avatea, who was
seated in the hinder part of the canoe. She was not fettered in any
way. Our captors now drove us before them towards the hut of Tararo, at
which we speedily arrived, and found the chief seated with an
expression on his face that boded us no good. Our friend the teacher
stood beside him, with a look of anxiety on his mild features.
"How comes it," said Tararo, turning to the teacher, "that these youths
have abused our hospitality?"
"Tell him," replied Jack, "that we have not abused his hospitality, for
his hospitality has not been extended to us. I came to the island to
deliver Avatea, and my only regret is that I have failed to do so. If I
get another chance, I will try to save her yet."
The teacher shook his head.
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