w in."

"The six islands are shaped exactly like a ring," said Dick. "And
this island is the big stone on top."

"As the island is uninhabited I suppose we'll have to settle down
and build ourselves huts or something," came from Nellie.

"To be sure. We'll be regular Robinson Crusoes," answered Tom. "Why,
I can tell you it will be jolly, when we get used to it."

"Where will we build our huts?" asked Sam.

"We can build them here, if we wish," replied Dick. "But I rather
favor the side fronting the other islands."

"Yes, that's the best side," said Captain Jerry. "If we build here,
a strong storm may knock our huts flat. That side is more sheltered
and, consequently, safer. Besides, there is more fruit there, and
I'm sure better fishing in the bay, and that's what counts, too."

"Of course it counts--since we must live on fruits, fish, and what
birds and animals we manage to knock over," said Tom.

The boys had been fairly successful in hunting and fishing, having
knocked over half a dozen birds and caught four fair-sized fish.
Everything had been done to a turn over the camp-fire, and Dick and
old Jerry did full justice to what was set before them--on some dried
palm leaves Nellie had found. Their coffee they drank out of some
cocoanut shells. They had no forks, but used sharp sticks instead,
and the knives the boys carried in their pockets.

The weather continued fine and that night the moon shone as brightly
as ever. The boys took a stroll on the beach to talk over their plans.

"I am sorry to say there is no telling how long we may have to stay
here," said Dick. "It may be a day, a week, or for years."

"Oh, some ship is bound to pick us up some day," returned Tom. "And
if we can find enough to live on in the meantime, what is the use of
complaining? I am glad my life was spared."

"So am I, Tom."

"I would like to know what became of Dan Baxter," put in Sam. "Can
it be possible that all of the rest perished?"

"Certainly it is possible, Sam. You know what a time we had of it."

"It is an awful death to die--in the midst of the ocean," and the
youngest Rover shuddered.

"I agree with you," said Tom. "But I am more sorry for Captain Blossom
than for Baxter."

"The wrecking of the ship was the fault of the mate. He was drunk,"
said Dick. "The man at the wheel was doing what was right until Jack
Lesher came along."

"Well, I guess the mate went down with the rest."

"Look!" cried Sam, pointing t