ng them than was
necessary. All his efforts, however, to get the canoe repaired were
useless, as some of her principal beams were broken, and it became
necessary to pull her to pieces and to rebuild her. He hoped, however,
that, before that could be done, the island would be visited by the
missionary vessel, which would either carry him and his people off, or
through which he might inform Captain Bertram where he was. In the
meantime, that they might not be a burden to the inhabitants, he advised
Marco to offer the services of his people to assist in cultivating the
ground, while he and his seamen set to work to erect more comfortable
huts than any which he had seen on the island. Marco did not refuse to
labour with his hands, but he was also actively employed in assisting
the missionary in preaching to and teaching the people. In this he was
helped by several of his companions. Schools, both for adults and
children, were also formed, and visible progress was made.

Three months fled rapidly by, when one day a native came running up to
Mr Manners' hut, to tell him that a vessel was approaching the island.
He at once went, accompanied by most of his men, to the highest spot in
the neighbourhood, whence he could have a good look-out over the sea.
His heart leaped for joy, for the ship, there could be little doubt of
it, was the Ajax herself. The seamen one and all were agreed that she
was their own ship. She hove to, a boat came on shore, and Mr Martin
and his crew were cordially welcomed by their shipmates. The loss of
the schooner, in consequence of her non-arrival, had been supposed
probable, and the Ajax was now on a cruise to ascertain her fate, and to
rescue any of the survivors of those who had been on board. After doing
this, she was to return to Callao, where the admiral in the Pacific then
was.

It is not necessary to describe the reception Mr Manners and his people
met with on board their ship. Mr Martin was thankful to get back his
son, and more so when he discovered the great change which had taken
place in him. Ned was at once rated on the books of the Ajax as one of
her crew. He had greatly improved since he had been discovered, and,
with Ben constantly at his side, assisted also by Mr Manners, he
continued to progress in Christian knowledge, as well as to improve in
conduct and manners. Captain Bertram offered to receive Marco and his
fellow-islanders on board. Two begged to remain where th