As soon as the vessel came to an anchor a number of canoes put out,
laden with yams, cocoa-nuts, and other vegetables and fruit for
exchange. Had they been allowed they would have come alongside and
climbed up to the deck, but the captain would not permit them to come
within thirty or forty yards. Although there was no one on board who
could speak their language, his emphatic gestures were understood by
the natives, and were sufficient to show them that he was not to be
trifled with. Two boats only were allowed to approach at a time, and a
guard of six sailors with muskets were placed on deck with orders to
prevent anyone coming up, and to cover those who descended the gangway.
The younger passengers thought that the captain was unnecessarily timid;
but ready as he was to oblige them on ordinary occasions, they saw that
this time it would be no use to try to change his determination that
none should go on shore. Going down the gangway they bargained with the
natives, giving little articles in exchange for fruit.

Mr. Atherton was evidently of the captain's opinion as to the necessity
for prudence, and had stationed himself with his rifle near the gangway.

"They look quite peaceful and cheerful," Marion Renshaw said to him. "Do
you think there is really any use in all these precautions, Mr.
Atherton?"

"I do indeed, Miss Renshaw. I do not think one can be too careful when
dealing with people who are notoriously so treacherous."

"Are you a good shot with a rifle, Mr. Atherton?"

"Yes; although I say it myself, I am an exceptionally good shot. I have
practised a great deal with the rifle, and have, I suppose, a natural
aptitude for it; for when I fire I am morally certain of hitting my
mark, though I am hardly conscious of taking aim."

When the contents of a few boats had been taken on board the captain
made signs that he required no more, and the natives, with looks of
evident discontent, paddled back to the shore.

"We shall have some chiefs off in the morning," the captain said.
"To-day they have kept in the background, but seeing that we are wary
and on our guard they will probably come off to-morrow to view matters
for themselves. I shall let them perceive that I am well prepared, and
it may be when they see this they will be inclined to do a little honest
trading, and to bring off a strong spar with which we can at anyrate
make a shift for our mainmast. We will keep watch and watch as if we
were at sea. I