of brilliant and
beautiful shells. Then it was hoisted and the contents transferred
aboard. In the clear waters on the coral reef, Paul, by hanging over the
stern, could distinctly see Tom on the bottom moving around in his
ponderous dress. He longed for the day when he could go down and behold
the strange sights below in the green, transparent water. At last, the
yawl was loaded. Tom came up and the helmet of his suit was removed and
he enjoyed the pure, salt air once more. The boat was headed for
shore and the treasures landed. All living shells were quickly
transferred to the boilers full of hot water. They were left to
simmer over the fire for a couple of hours, after which they were dumped
on the sands. The thoroughly cooked inhabitants were easily removed
and the shells sweet and clean and glowing with all the beautiful tints
of the rose and lily, were placed in piles under the shade of the
awning.

While the crew was engaged in this latter occupation, Scott, and Paul,
armed with rifle and shotgun, would saunter through the heavily perfumed
tropical forests in search of any game they could find. In expeditions
of this kind, they captured three young monkeys and a couple of parrots,
who were soon trained pets on the Cayosa, furnishing all hands with
amusement. Scott and Paul shot many iguanos. These are huge lizards
that abound in the tropics. The captain and crew considered this game a
great delicacy and broiled and ate them with relish. It was a long time
ere Scott or Paul would touch the reptiles. One day the black captain
offered all a young lizard, daintily broiled. He assured them that it
was as sweet and tender as an angel's dream. They tasted it and found
it really excellent, and from that time on partook heartily of the
dish, whenever it was on the table. At night they frequently stretched
their hammocks from tree to tree for their cabin was uncomfortably hot.
After a refreshing bath in the cool phosphorescent water and a scamper
up and down the level sands in lieu of a towel, they would turn in and
enjoy a sound sleep. They were generally awakened before daylight by the
shrieking and chattering of the parrots and monkeys. Then with a spring
from their hammock, they would dash merrily in to the reviving water.
After this they donned their white canvas suits and were ready for
another day. Breakfast was taken on shore. This consisted of fresh fish,
coffee, cocoanuts