 CHAPTER V Next morning, while the breakfast was getting ready, I attended to the beautiful skin of the kangaroo, which I was anxious to preserve entire, and afterward, when Fritz had prepared everything in readiness for our trip to the wreck, I called Ernest and Jack in order to give them some parting injunctions. They, however, had disappeared directly after breakfast, and their mother could only guess that, as we required potatoes, they might have gone to fetch a supply. I desired her to reprove them on their return for starting away without leave, but, as it appeared they had taken Turk, I satisfied myself that no harm was likely to befall them, although it was not without reluctance that I left my dear wife alone with little friends, cheering her with hopes of our speedy return with new treasures from the wreck. Advancing steadily on our way, we crossed the bridge at Jackal River, when suddenly, to our no small astonishment, Jack and Ernest burst out of a hiding-place where they had lain in wait for us, and were enchanted with the startling effect of their unexpected appearance upon their unsuspecting father and brother. It was evident that they fully believed they might now go with us to the wreck. To this notion I at once put a decided stop, although I could not find in my heart to scold the two merry rogues for their thoughtless frolic, more especially as I particularly wished to send back a message to my wife. I told them they must hurry home, so as not to leave their mother in suspense, although, as they were already so far, they might collect some salt, and I instructed them to explain that, as my work on board would take up a long time, she must try to bear with our absence for a night. This I had meant to say when we parted, but my courage had failed, knowing how much she would object to such a plan, and I had resolved to return in the evening. On consideration, however, of the importance of constructing a raft, which was my intention and going, and finishing it without a second trip, I determined to remain on board for the night, as the boys had, unintentionally, given me the chance of sending a message to that effect. Good-bye, boys, take care of yourselves, we're off, shouted Fritz, as I joined him in the tub-boat, and we shoved off. The current carried us briskly out of the bay. We were very soon moored safely alongside the wreck, and scrambling up her shattered sides, stood on what remained of the deck, and began at once to lay our plans. I wanted to make a raft fit to carry on shore a great variety of articles far too large and heavy for our present boat. A number of empty water casks seemed just what was required for a foundation. We closed them tightly, pushed them overboard, and arranging twelve of them side by side in rows of three, we firmly secured them together by means of spars, and then proceeded to lay a good substantial floor of planks, which was defended by a low bulwark. In this way we soon had a first-rate raft, exactly suited to our purpose. It would have been impossible to return to land that same evening, for we were thoroughly fatigued by our labours, and had eaten only the light refreshment we had brought in our wallets, scarcely desisting a moment from our work. Rejoicing that we were not expected home, we now made an excellent supper from the ship's provisions, and then rested for the night on spring mattresses, a perfect luxury to us after our hard and narrow hammocks. Next morning we actively set about loading the raft and boat, first carrying off the entire contents of our own cabins, and passing on to the captain's room. We removed the furniture, as well as the doors and window frames, with their bolts, bars, and locks. We next took the officer's chests, and those belonging to the carpenter and gunsmith, the contents of these latter we had to remove in portions, as their weight was far beyond our strength. One large chest was filled with an assortment of fancy goods, and reminded us of a jeweler's shop, so glittering was the display of gold and silver watches, snuff boxes, buckles, studs, chains, rings, and all manner of trinkets. These and a box of money drew our attention for a time. But more useful to us at present was a case of common knives and forks, which I was glad to find, as more suited to us than the smart silver ones we had previously taken on shore. To my delight we found, most carefully packed, a number of young fruit trees, and we read on the tickets attached to them the names so pleasant to European ears of the apple, pear, chestnut, orange, almond, peach, apricot, plum, cherry, and vine. The cargo which had been destined for the supply of a distant colony proved, in fact, a rich and almost inexhaustible treasure to us. Iron mongery, plumbers tools, lead, paint, grindstones, cartwheels, and all that was necessary for the work of a smith's forge, spades and plowshares, sacks of maize, peas, oats, and wheat, a handmill, and also the parts of a sawmill, so carefully numbered that, were we strong enough, it would be easy to put it up, had been stowed away. So bewildered were we by the wealth around us that for some time we were at a loss as to what to remove to the raft. It would be impossible to take everything, yet the first storm would complete the destruction of the ship, and we should lose all that we left behind. Selecting a number of the most useful articles, however, including, of course, the grain and the fruit trees, we gradually loaded our raft. Fishing lines, reels, cordage, and a couple of harpoons were put on board, as well as a mariner's compass. Fritz, recollecting our encounter with the shark, placed the harpoons in readiness, and amused be by seeming to picture himself a whaler, flourishing his harpoon in most approved fashion. Early in the afternoon both our crafts were heavily laden, and we were ready to make for the shore. The voyage was begun with considerable anxiety, as, with the raft in tow, there was some danger of an accident. But the sea being calm and the wind favorable, we found we could spread the sail, and our progress was very satisfactory. Presently Fritz asked me for the telescope, as he had observed something curious floating at a distance. Then handing it back he begged me to examine the object, which I soon discovered to be a turtle asleep on the water, and, of course, unconscious of our approach. "'Do, Father, steer toward it,' exclaimed he. I accordingly did so that he might have a nearer look at the creature. Little did I suspect what was to follow. The lad's back was turned to me, and the broad sail was between us, so that I could not perceive his actions, when, all of a sudden, I experienced a shock, and the thrill of line running through a reel. Before I had time to call out a second shock, and the sensation of the boat being rapidly drawn through the water alarmed me. "'Fritz, what are you about?' cried I. "'You are sending us to the bottom.' "'I have him! Hurrah! I have him safe!' shouted he, in eager excitement. To my amazement I perceived that he really had struck the tortoise with a harpoon. A rope was attached to it, and the creature was running away with us. Lowering the sail and seizing my hatchet I hastened forward in order to cut the line and cast a drift at once, turtle and harpoon. "'Father, do wait!' pleaded the boy. There is no danger just yet. I promise to cut the line myself if the instant it is necessary. Let us catch this turtle if we possibly can.' "'My dear boy, the turtle will be a very dear bargain if he upsets all our goods into the sea, even if he does not drown us, too. For heaven's sake, be careful. I will wait a few minutes, but the minute there is danger, cut the line.' As the turtle began to make for the open sea I hoisted the sail again, and, finding the opposition too much for it, the creature again directed its course landward, drawing us rapidly after it. The part of the shore for which the turtle was making was considerably to the left of our usual landing-place. The beach there shelved very gradually, and at some distance from land we grounded with a sharp shock, but fortunately without a cap size. The turtle was evidently greatly exhausted and no wonder since it had been acting the part of a steam-tug, and had been dragging at full speed a couple of heavily laden vessels. Its intention was to escape to land, but I leaped into the water and, waiting up to it, dispatched it with my axe. Such was its tenacity of life, however, that it did not cease its struggles until I had actually severed its head from its body. As we were by no means far from Falconhurst, Fritz gave notice of our approach by firing off his gun, as well as shouting loudly in his glee, and while we were yet engaged in securing our boats and getting the turtle on shore, the whole family appeared in the distance, hastening eagerly toward us, and our new prize, together with the well-laden boat and raft, excited the liveliest interest. My wife's chief pleasure, however, consisted in seeing us back, as our knight's absence had disturbed her, and she was horrified by the description of our dangerous run in the wake of the fugitive turtle. Being anxious to remove some of our goods before night, the boys ran off to fetch the sledge, while I, having no anchor, contrived to moor the boats by means of some of the heavy blocks of iron we had brought. It required our united strength to get the turtle hoisted onto the sledge, its weight being prodigious. We found it, indeed, with the addition of the sapling fruit trees, quite a sufficient load. We then made the best of our way home, chatting merrily about our various adventures. The first thing to be done on arriving was to obtain some of the turtle's flesh and cook it for supper. To my wife this appeared necessarily a work of time, as well as of difficulty, but I turned the beast on its back, and soon detached a portion of the meat from the breast with a hatchet, by breaking the lower shell, and I then directed that it should be cooked with a little salt, shell, and all. But let me first cut away this disgusting green fat, said my wife with a little shudder. See how it sticks all over the meat. No one could eat anything so nasty. Leave that fat whatever you do, exclaimed I. Why, my dear, that is the very best part, and the delight of the epicure. If there be really too much, cut some off, it can be used as lard, and let the dogs make a supper of the refuse. And the handsome shell, cried Fritz, I should like to make a water trough of that, to stand near the brook, and be kept always full of clear water, how useful it would be. That is a capital idea, I replied, and we may manage it easily, if we can find clay so as to make a firm foundation on which to place it. Oh, as to clay, said Jack, I have a grand lump of clay there under that root. Well done, my lad, when did you find it? He found a bed of clay near the river this morning, said his mother, and came home in such a mess I had regularly to scrape his clothes and wash him thoroughly. Well, mother, I can only tell you I should never in all my days have found the clay if I had not slipped and fallen among it. That, I can well believe, returned his mother, only to hear your talk this morning, one would have thought your discovery of clay the result of very arduous search indeed. When you have ended the question of the clay and the turtle shells, said Ernest, I should like to show you some roots I found today. They are getting rather dry now. They look something like radishes, although the plant itself was almost a bush, but I have not ventured to taste them, although our old sow was devouring them at a great rate. In that you did wisely, my boy, swine eat many things injurious to men. Let me see your roots. How did you discover them? I was rambling in the wood this morning and came upon the sow, very busy grubbing under a small bush, and eating something ravenously, so I drove her away and found a number of these roots which I brought for you to see. Indeed, Ernest, I exclaimed, after taking the roots in my hand and considering them attentively. I am inclined to believe that you have really made a brilliant discovery. If this proves to be, as I expect, the manioc root, we might lose every other eatable we possess and yet not starve. In the West Indies, cakes called cassava bread are made from it, and, already having potatoes, we shall be very independent if we can succeed in preparing flour from these roots. Great care must be taken in the manufacture to express the juice, otherwise the flour may be injurious and even poisonous. If we can collect a sufficient quantity, we will attempt bread-making. I think I know how to set about it. Finding there was still time to make another trip with the sledge, I went off with the elder boys, leaving friends with his mother, and we all looked forward with satisfaction to the prospect of the princely supper they were to have ready for us, for our day's work had been none of the lightest. I have been thinking about my turtle father, said Fritz, as we went along, is not the shell very valuable. Surely beautiful combs, boxes, and a number of ornamental things are made of tortoise shell, and if so it seems a pity to use it for a water trough. Your turtle, Fritz, is only fit for eating. Its shell is worthless as regards ornament, whereas the species whose shell is prized so much is unfit for food. Tortoise shell is subjected to the action of the heat. The outer layer peels off, leaving a beautifully marked, semi-transparent surface, which is susceptible of a very high polish. The sledge quickly received its second load from the raft. Chests, four cartwheels, and the handmill were placed on it, with all manner of smaller articles, and we lost no time in returning to Falconhurst. The mother welcomed us joyfully, for she said we had been regularly overworked during the last two days. However, now you are come home to rest, said she, and you little think what refreshment awaits you here in the shade, come and see my cellar. And she smilingly exhibited a small cask, half sunk in the ground, and well sheltered with leaves and branches. Ah, you wonder where this came from, continued the mother. Well, I found it myself on the sands, today, while you were all absent, and fancying it was wine of some sort, I got it up here on purpose to be ready for you. The boys are most anxious to know what sort of wine it will prove to be. As the simplest method of ascertaining this, I inserted a straw at the vent hole, and presently announced that in all my life I had never enjoyed a more delicious draft of canary sack. The mother was immediately pleased to find that her exertions in my behalf had not been thrown away, and the boys pressed around me, armed with straws, and begging for a taste. After so strongly expressing my own enjoyment of the wine, it seemed unreasonable to deny them this, and I let them come in turns, but was speedily obliged to call a halt, for the rogues got so eager and excited that I had to reprove them for their greediness, and warn them of the risk they ran of being intoxicated. In fact, I blamed myself for allowing them to have this strong wine as a beverage at all. They were wholly unaccustomed to it, and were, besides, fatigued and very hungry. Supper was more to the purpose, and as the turtle proved delicious, it was heartily enjoyed, and gave us strength to haul the mattresses we had brought from the ship up into our sleeping rooms, so that very refreshing slumbers closed the day. Early next morning I got up without rousing any of the others, intending to pay a visit to the beach, for I had my doubts about the safety of my vessels on the open shore. The dogs were delighted when I descended the ladder, and bounded to meet me. The cocks crowed and flapped their wings. Two pretty kids gambled around. All was life and energy. The ass alone seemed disinclined to begin the day, and as I especially required his services, this was unfortunate. I put his morning dreams to flight, however, and harnessed him to the sledge. The cow, as she had not been milked, enjoyed the privilege of further repose, and, with the rest of the family, I left her dozing. My fears as to the safety of the boats were soon dispelled, for they were all right, and, being in haste to return, the load I collected from their freight was but a light one, and the donkey willingly trotted home with it, he as well as I, being uncommonly ready for breakfast. Approaching the tree, not a sound was to be heard, not a soul was to be seen. Although it was broad day, and great was my good wife's surprise, when, roused by the clatter and hullabaloo I made, she started up, and became aware of the late hour. What can have made us oversleep ourselves like this? she exclaimed. It must be the fault of those mattresses. They are delightful, but really too lulling. See, the children are sound asleep still. With much stretching and many yawns, the boys at last came tumbling down from the tree, rubbing their eyes and seeming but half awake. Ernest last, as usual. Come, my boys, said I, this will never do. Your beds were too luxurious last night, I see. In my own opinion, however, I felt there was something else to blame, besides the comfortable mattresses, and I made a mental resolve that the captain's fine canary should be dealt with very sparingly in future. So now, for prayers and breakfast, I continued, and then off to work. I must have our cargo landed in time to get the boats off with the next tide. By dint of downright hard work we accomplished this, and I got on board with frits as soon as they were afloat. The rest turned homeward, but Jack lingered behind with such imploring looks that I could not resist taking him with me. My intention had been simply to take the vessels round to the harbour in Safety Bay, but the calm sea and fine weather tempted me to make another trip to the wreck. It took up more time than I expected, so that, when on board, we could only make a further examination of the cargo, collect a few portable articles, and then avail ourselves of the sea breeze which would fail us later in the evening. To Jack, the pleasure of hunting about in the hold was novel and charming, and very soon a tremendous rattling and clattering heralded his approach with a wheelbarrow, in the highest spirits at his good fortune in having found such a capital thing in which to bring home potatoes. He was followed by frits whose news was still more important. He had found, carefully packed and enclosed within partitions, what appeared to be the separate parts of a penis, with rigging and fittings complete, even to a couple of small brass guns. This was a great discovery, and I hastened to see if the lad was right. Indeed he was, but my pleasure was qualified by a sense of the arduous task it would be to put such a craft together so as to be fit for sea. For the present we had barely time to get something to eat and hurry into the boat, where we collected our new acquisitions, namely a copper boiler, iron plates, tobacco graters, two grindstones, a small barrel of powder, and another a flint, two wheel-barrows besides jacks, which he kept under his own as special care. As we drew near the shore we were surprised to see a number of little figures ranged in a row along the water's edge, and apparently gazing fixedly at us. They seemed to wear dark coats and white waistcoats, and stood quite still with their arms dropping by their sides, only every now and then one would extend them gently, as though longing to embrace us. Ah! here at last come the pygmy inhabitants of the country to welcome us! cried I, laughing. Oh, Father! exclaimed Jack, I hope they are Liliputians. I read once in a book about them, so there must be such people, you know, only these look rather too large. You must be content to give up the Liliputians and accept penguins, my dear Jack, said I. We have not before seen them in such numbers, but Ernest knocked one down, if you remember, soon after we landed. They can neither fly nor run. We were gradually approaching the land, as I spoke, and no sooner was the water shallow than out sprang Jack from his tub, and, waving ashore, took the unsuspecting birds by surprise, and with his stick laid half a dozen right and left, either stunned or dead at his feet. The rest escaped into the water, dived, and disappeared. As these penguins are disagreeable food on account of their strong oily taste, I was sorry Jack had attacked them. But going to examine them when we landed, some of the fallen arose from their swoon, and began solemnly to waddle away, upon which we caught them, and tying their feet together with long grass, laid them on the sand to wait, until we were ready to start. The three wheel-barrows then each received a load. The live penguins, seated gravely, were trundled along by Jack, and away we went at a great rate. The usual noise of our approach set the dogs barking furiously, but discovering us they rushed forward with such forcible demonstrations of delight that poor little Jack, who, as it was, could scarcely manage his barrow, was fairly upset, penguins and all. This was too much for his patience, and it was absurd to see how he started up and cuffed them soundly for their boisterous behaviour. This scene and the examination of our burdens caused great merriment. The tobacco grater and iron plates evidently puzzling everybody. I sent the boys to catch some of our geese and ducks, and bid them fasten a penguin to each by the leg, thinking that it was worthwhile to try to tame them. My wife had exerted herself in our absence to provide a good store of potatoes, and also of manioc root. I admired her industry, and little Fran said, Ah, Father, I wonder what you will say when Mother and I give you some Indian corn, and melons, and pumpkins, and cucumbers. Now, you little chatterbox, cried she, you have let out my secret. I was to have the pleasure of surprising your Father when my plants were growing up. Ah, the poor disappointed little Mother, said I, never mind, I am charmed to hear about it, only do tell me where did these seeds come from. Out of my magic bag, of course, replied she, and each time I have gone for potatoes, I have sown seeds in the ground, which was dug up to get them, and I have planted potatoes also. Well done, you wise little woman, I exclaimed. Why, you are a model of prudence and industry. But, continued she, I do not half like the appearance of those tobacco graders you have brought. Is it possible you are going to make snuff? Do pray, let us make sure of abundance of food for our mouths, before we think of our noses. Make your mind easy, my wife, said I, I have not the remotest intention of introducing the dirty, ridiculous habit of snuffing into your family. Pleased to treat my graders with respect, however, because they are to be the means of providing you with the first fresh bread you have seen this many a long day. What possible connection can there be between bread and tobacco graders? I cannot imagine what you mean, and to talk of bread, where there are no ovens, is only tantalizing. Ah, you must not expect real loaves, said I, but on these flat iron plates I can bake flat cakes or scones, which will be excellent bread. I mean to try at once what I can do with earnest roots. And, first of all, I want you to make a nice, strong canvas bag. This the mother willingly undertook to do, but she evidently had not much faith in my powers as a baker, and I saw her set on a good pot full of potatoes before beginning to work, as though to make sure of a meal, without depending on my bread. Spreading a piece of sailcloth on the ground, I summoned my boys to set to work. Each took a grater and a supply of well-washed manioc root, and when all were seated round the cloth, once, twice, thrice, off, cried I, beginning to rub a root as hard as I could against the rough surface of my grater. My example was instantly followed by the whole party, amid bursts of merriment, as each remarked the funny attitude and odd gestures of his neighbors, while vehemently rubbing, rasping, grating, and grinding down the roots allotted to him. No one was tempted by the look of the flour to stop and taste it, for in truth it looked much like wet sawdust. Cassava bread is highly esteemed in many parts of the new world, and I have heard that some Europeans there prefer it to the wheaten bread of their own country. Now there are various species of manioc. One sort grows quickly, and its roots ripen in a very short time. Another kind is of somewhat slower growth. The roots of the third kind do not come to maturity for two years. The two first are poisonous if eaten raw, yet they are preferred to the third which is harmless because they are so much more fruitful, and the flour produced is excellent if the scrapings are carefully pressed. What is the good of pressing them, father, inquired earnest? It is in order to express the sap which contains poison. The dry pith is wholesome and nourishing. Still, I do not mean to taste my cakes until I have tried the effect on our fowls and the ape. By this time our supply of roots being reduced to damp powder, the canvas bag was filled with it, and tying it tightly up I attempted to squeeze it, but soon found that mechanical aid was necessary in order to express the moisture. My arrangements for this purpose were as follows. A strong straight beam was made flat on one side. Smooth planks were laid across two of the lower roots of our tree. On these we placed the sack, above the sack and other plank, and over that the long beam. One end was passed under a root near the sack, the other projected for our forward. And to that we attached all the heaviest weights we could think of, such as an anvil, iron bars, and masses of lead. The consequent pressure on the bag was enormous, and the sap flowed from it to the ground. Will this stuff keep any time? inquired my wife, who came to see how we were getting on. Or must all this great bag full be used at once? In that case we shall have to spend the whole of tomorrow in baking cakes. Not at all, I replied, once dry the flour in barrels will keep fresh a long time. We shall use a great deal of this, however, as you shall see. Do you think we might begin now, Father? said Fritz. There does not seem the least moisture remaining. Certainly, said I, but I shall only make one cake to-day for an experiment. We must see how it agrees with Master Knips and the Hens, before we set up a bakehouse in regular style. I took out a couple of handfuls of flour for this purpose, and with a stick loosened and stirred the remainder, which I intended should be again pressed. While an iron plate placed over a good fire was getting hot, I mixed the meal with water and a little salt, kneaded it well, and forming a thickish cake, laid it on the hot plate. When one side presently becoming a nice yellow-brown color, it was turned, and was quickly baked. It smelt so delicious that the boys quite envied the two hens and the monkey, who were selected as the subjects of this interesting experiment, and they silently watched them gobbling up the bits of cake I gave them, until Fritz turned to me, saying, Suppose the cake is poisonous, what effect will it have on the creatures? Will they be stupefied, or will they suffer pain? That depends upon the nature of the poison. Some cause violent pain, as colchicum, helibor, and aconite. Others produce stupefaction and paralysis, as opium, hemlock, and pruscik acid. While others, again, as strychnine, are followed by violent convulsions, or, as belladonna, by delirium. The effects, of course, varying according to the quantity taken, and such remedies should be applied as will best counteract the effect of each poison. Emitics, in any case, to remove as much as possible of the noxious substance, combined with oils and musilaginous drinks to soothe and protect the stomach, in case of irritants. Stimulants, such as spirits, ammonia, or strong coffee, to rouse from the stupor of the narcotics, and sedative drugs, which are perhaps in themselves poisons, to counteract the overstimulation of the nerves caused by the convulsant poisons. But now let us think no more of poisons, here is supper ready, and we need not be afraid to eat roast penguin and potatoes. No sooner said than done, we left the fowls picking up the least crumb they could find, of the questionable food, and assembled to enjoy our evening meal. The potatoes were as usual excellent, the penguin was really not so bad as I expected, although fishy in taste, and very tough. Next morning everyone expressed the tenderest concern as to the health of knips and the hens, and lively pleasure was in every countenance when Jack, who ran first to make the visit inquiry, brought news of their perfect good health and spirits. No time was now to be lost, and the bread-baking commenced in earnest. A large fire was kindled, the plates heated, the meal made into cakes, each of the boys busily preparing his own, and watching the baking most eagerly. Mistakes occurred, of course, some of the bread was burnt, some not done enough, but a pile of nice tempting cakes was at length ready, and with plenty of good milk we breakfasted right royally, and in high spirits at our success. Soon after, while feeding the poultry with the fragments of the repast, I observed that the captive penguins were quite at ease among them, and as tame as the geese and ducks, their bonds were therefore loosed, and they were left as free as the other fowls. End of Chapter 5 Read by Kara Schellenberg on July 16, 2009 In San Diego, California Chapter 6 Part 1 of The Swiss Family Robinson This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann R. Wies. Chapter 6 Part 1 Having now discovered how to provide bread for my family, my thoughts began to revert to the wreck, and all the valuables yet contained within it. Above all, I was bent on acquiring possession of the beautiful pinnace, and aware that our united efforts would be required to do the necessary work, I began to coax and persuade the mother to let me go in force with all her boys, except fronts. She very unwillingly gave her consent at last, but not until I had faithfully promised her never to pass a night on board. I did so with reluctance, and we parted, neither feeling quite satisfied with the arrangement. The boys were delighted to go in so large a party, and merrily carried provision bags filled with cassava bread and potatoes. Reaching safety bay without adventure we first paid a visit to the geese and ducks, which inhabited the marsh there, and having fed them and seen they were thriving well, we buckled on each his cork belt, stepped into the tub boat, and, with the raft in tow, steered straight for the wreck. When we got on board, I desired the boys to collect whatever came first to hand, and load the raft to be ready for our return at night, and then we made a minute inspection of the pinnace. I came to the conclusion that difficulties, well-nigh insuperable, lay between me and the safe possession of the beautiful little vessel. She lay in a most unget-attable position at the further end of the hold, stowed in so confined and narrow a space that it was impossible to think of fitting the parts together there. At the same time these parts were so heavy that removing them to a convenient place, piece by piece, was equally out of the question. I sent the boys away to amuse themselves by rummaging out anything they liked to carry away, and sat down quietly to consider the matter. As my eyes became used to the dim light which entered the compartment through a chink or crevice here and there, I perceived how carefully every part of the pinnace was arranged and marked with numbers, so that if only I could bestow sufficient time on the work, and contrive space in which to execute it, I might reasonably hope for success. Room, room to work in, boys, that's what we need in the first place, I cried, as my sons came to see what plan I had devised, for so great was their reliance on me that they never doubted the pinnace was to be ours. Fetch axes and let us break down the compartment and clear space all round. To work we went, yet evening drew near, and but little impression was made on the massive woodwork around us. We had to acknowledge that an immense amount of labour and perseverance would be required before we could call ourselves the owners of the useful and elegant little craft which lay within this vast hulk like a fossil shell embedded in a rock. Preparations for returning to shore were hastily made, and we landed without much relish for the long walk to Falconhurst when, to our great surprise and pleasure, we found the mother and little friends at Tenth Home awaiting us. She had resolved to take up her quarters there during the time we should be engaged on the wreck. In that way you will live nearer your work, and I shall not quite lose sight of you, said she, with a pleasant smile. You are a good, sensible, kind wife, I exclaimed, delighted with her plan, and we shall work with the greater diligence that you may return as soon as possible to your dear Falconhurst. Come and see what we have brought you, mother, cried Fritz, a good addition to your stores, is it not? And he and his brothers exhibited two small casks of butter, three of flour, corn, rice, and many other articles welcome to our careful housewife. Our days were now spent in hard work on board, first cutting and clearing an open space round the penis, and then putting the parts together. We started early and returned at night, bringing each time a valuable freight from the old vessel. At length, with incredible labour, all was completed. The penis stood actually ready to be launched, but imprisoned within massive wooden walls which defied our strength. It seemed exactly as though the graceful vessel had been awakened from sleep, and was longing to spring into the free blue sea and spread her wings to the breeze. I could not bear to think that our success so far should be followed by failure and disappointment. Yet no possible means of setting her free could I conceive, and I was almost in despair when an idea occurred to me which, if I could carry it out, would affect her release without further labour or delay. Without explaining my purpose, I got a large cast iron mortar, filled it with gunpowder, secured a block of oak to the top, through which I pierced a hole for the insertion of the match, and this great pitard I so placed that when it exploded it should blow out the side of the vessel, next from which the penis lay. Then, securing it with chains, that the recoil might do no damage, I told the boys I was going ashore earlier than usual, and calmly desired them to get into the boat. Then, lighting a match I had prepared, and which would burn some time before reaching the powder, I hastened after them with a beating heart, and we made for the land. We brought the raft close inshore and began to unload it. The other boat I did not haul up, but kept her ready to put off at a moment's notice. My anxiety was unobserved by anyone, as I listened with strained nerves for the expected sound. It came, a flash, a mighty roar, a grand burst of smoke. My wife and children, terror-stricken, turned their eyes toward the sea once the startling noise came, and then, in fear and wonder, looked to me for some explanation. Perhaps, said the mother, as I did not speak, perhaps you have left a light burning near some of the gunpowder, and an explosion has taken place. Not at all unlikely, replied I quietly. We had a fire below when we were caulking the seams of the penis. I shall go off at once and see what has happened. Will any one come? The boys needed no second invitation, but sprang into the boat, while I lingered to reassure my wife by whispering a few words of explanation, and then joining them we polled for the wreck at a more rapid rate than we ever had done before. No alternation had taken place in the side at which we usually boarded her, and we pulled round to the further side, where a marvellous sight awaited us. A huge rent appeared, the decks and bulwarks were torn open, the water was covered with floating wreckage, all seemed in ruins, and the compartment where the penis rested was fully revealed to view. There sat the little beauty, to all appearance uninjured, and the boys, whose attention was taken up with the melancholy scene of ruin and confusion around them, were astonished to hear me shout in enthusiastic delight. Hurrah! She is ours! The lovely penis is one. We shall be able to launch her easily after all. Come, boys, let us see if she has suffered from the explosion which has set her free. The boys gazed at me for a moment, and then, guessing my secret, you planned it yourself, you clever, cunning father. Oh, that machine we helped to make was on purpose to blow it up, cried they, and eagerly they followed me into the shattered opening, where, to my intense satisfaction, I found everything as I could wish, and the captive in no way a sufferer from the violent measures I had adopted for her deliverance. The boys were deeply interested in examining the effects of the explosion, and in the explanation I gave them of the principle and proper way to manage a patard. It was evident that the launch could now be affected without much trouble. I had been careful to place rollers beneath the keel, so that by means of levers and pulleys we might, with our united strength, move her forward toward the water. A rope was attached by which to regulate the speed of the descent, and then, all hands putting their shoulders to the work, the pinnace began to slide from the stocks, and finally slipped gently and steadily into the water, where she floated as if conscious it was her native element, while we, wild with excitement, cheered and waved enthusiastically. We then only remained long enough to secure our prize carefully at the most sheltered point, and went back to Tentholme, where we accounted for the explosion, saying that having blown away one side of the ship, we should be able to obtain the rest of its contents with a very few more days' work. These days were devoted to completing the rigging, the mounting of her two little brass guns, and all necessary arrangements about the pinnace. It was wonderful what Marshal Arder was awakened by the possession of a vessel armed with two real guns. The boys chattered incessantly about savages, fleets of canoes, attack, defence, and final annihilation of the invaders. I assured them that, brilliant as their victories would doubtless be, we should have good cause to thank God if their fighting powers and newborn valor were never put to the test. The pinnace was fully equipped and ready to sail, while yet no idea of the surprise we were preparing for her had dawned upon my wife, and I permitted the boys, who had kept the secret so well, to fire a salute when we entered the bay. Casting off from the ship and spreading the sail, our voyage began. The pinnace glided swiftly through the water. I stood at the helm, Ernest and Jack manned the guns, and Fritz gave the word of command, FIRE! BANG! BANG! rattled out a thrilling report, which echoed and re-echoed among the cliffs, followed by our shouts and hurrahs. The mother and her little boy rushed hastily forward from near the tent, and we could plainly see their alarm and astonishment. But speedily recognizing us, they waved joyfully, and came quickly to the landing-place to meet us. By skillful management we brought the pinnace near a projection of the bank, and Fritz assisted his mother to come on board, where, breathless with haste and excitement, she exclaimed, You dear horrid wonderful people, shall I scold you or praise you? You have frightened me out of my wits! To see a beautiful little ship come sailing in was startling enough, for I could not conceive who might be on board. But the report of your guns made me tremble with fear, and had I not recognized your voices directly after, I should have run away with fronts, heaven knows where. But have you really done all this work yourselves? She continued, when we had been forgiven for terrifying her with our vain glorious salute. What a charming little yacht! I should not be afraid to sail in this myself. After the pinnace had been shown off, and received the admiration she deserved, while our industry, skill, and perseverance met with boundless praise, Now, said my wife, you must come with me, and see how little fronts and I have improved our time every day of your absence. We all landed, and with great curiosity followed the mother up the river to board the cascade, where, to our astonishment, we found a garden neatly laid out in beds and walks, and she continued, We don't frighten people by firing salutes in honour of our performances, although by and by I too shall want fire in a peaceable form. Look at my beds of lettuce and cabbages, my rows of beans and peas. Think what delicious dinners I shall be able to cook for you, and give me credit for my diligence. My dear wife, I exclaimed, this is beautiful. You have done wonders. Did you not find the work too hard? The ground is light and easy to dig hereabouts, she replied. I have planted potatoes and cassava roots. There is space for sugarcane and the young fruit trees, and I shall want you to contrive to irrigate them, by leading water from the cascades in hollow bamboos. Up by the sheltering rocks I mean to have pineapples and melons. They will look splendid when they are spread there. To shelter the beds of European vegetables from the heat of the sun I have planted seeds of maize round them. The shadow of the tall plants will afford protection from the burning rays. Do you think that is a good plan? I do indeed. The whole arrangement is capital. Now, as sunset approaches, we must return to the tent for supper and rest, for both of which we are all quite ready. The time passed in happy talk over our many new interests. Everyone had the pleasant sensation which attends successful labour, as well as experiencing the joy of affording unexpected pleasure to others. And I especially pointed out to my sons how true, genuine happiness consists in that, rather than in mere self-gratification. Next morning my wife said, If you can exist on shore long enough to visit Falconhurst, dear husband, I should like you to attend to the little fruit trees. I fear they have been too much neglected. I have watered them occasionally and spread earth over the roots as they lay, but I could not manage to plant them. You have done far more than I could have expected, my wife, I replied, and provided you do not ask me to give up the sea altogether, I most willingly agree to your request, and will go to Falconhurst as soon as the raft is unloaded, and everything safely arranged here. Life on shore was an agreeable change for us all, and the boys actively went to work, so that the stores were quickly brought up to the tent, piled in order, and carefully covered with sail-cloths, fastened down by pegs all round. The pinnace being provided with an anchor was properly moored, and her elegant appearance quite altered the looks of our harbor, hitherto occupied only by the grotesque tub-boat, and flat uninteresting raft. Taking an ample supply of everything we should require at Falconhurst, we were soon comfortably re-established in that charming abode, its peaceful shade seeming more delightful than ever, after the heat and hard work we had lately undergone. Several Sundays had passed during our stay at Tentholm, and the welcome day of rest now returned again, to be observed with heartfelt devotion and grateful praise. I did not attempt too much in the form of preaching, as I could not have secured the attention of my hearers to any long-winded discourse, but they were interested in the Bible reading and simple instructions I drew from it, and their young voices joined sweetly in favorite hymns, which my wife sang from memory. In the evening I desired the boys to let me see their dexterity in athletic exercises, such as running, leaping, wrestling, and climbing, telling them they must keep up the practice of these things, so as to grow strong, active men, powerful to repel and cope with danger, as well as agile and swift-footed to escape from it. No man can be really courageous and self-reliant without an inward consciousness of physical power and capability. I want to see my sons strong, both morally and physically, said I. That means, little friends, as the large blue eyes looked inquiringly up at me, brave to do what is good and right, and to hate evil, and strong to work, hunt, and provide for themselves and others, and to fight if necessary. On the following day the boys seeming disposed to carry out my wishes by muscular exercise of all sorts. I encouraged them by saying I meant to prepare a curious new weapon for them, only they must promise not to neglect the practice of archery. As to their guns, I had no reason to fear they would be laid aside. Taking a long cord I attached a lead and bullet to each end, and had instantly to answer a storm of questions as to what this could possibly be for. This is a miniature lasso, said I. The Mexicans, Patagonians, and various tribes of South America make use of this weapon in hunting, with marvellous dexterity, only, having no bullets, they fasten stones to their ropes, which are immensely longer than this. One end is swung round and round the mounted hunter's head, and then cast with skill and precision toward the animal he wishes to strike. Immediately drawing it back he can repeat the blow, and either kill or wound his prey. Frequently, however, the intention is to take the animal, wild horse or buffalo, or whatever it may be, alive, and in that case the lasso is thrown while riding in hot pursuit, in such a way as to make the stone twist many times round the neck, body or legs of the fugitive, arresting him even in full career. Oh, Father, what a splendid contrivance! Will you try it now? There's the donkey, Father! Do catch the donkey! Not at all certain of my powers I declined to practice upon a live subject, but consented to make a trial of skill by aiming at the stump of a tree at no great distance. My success surpassed my own expectations. The stump was entwined by the cord in such a way as to leave no doubt whatever as to the feasibility of the wonderful performance as I described, and I was assailed by petitions from the boys, each anxious to possess a lasso of his own without a moment's delay. As the manufacture was simple their wishes were speedily gratified, and lasso practice became the order of the day. Fritz, who was the most active and adroit, besides having, of course, the greatest muscular strength, soon became skilled in the art. End of Chapter 6 Part 1, read by Kara Schellenberg on July 16, 2009, in San Diego, California. Chapter 6 Part 2 of The Swiss Family Robinson This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann R. Wies, Chapter 6, Part 2. That night a change came over the weather, and early next morning I perceived that a gale of wind was getting up. From the height of our trees I could see that the surface of the sea was in violent agitation. It was with no small satisfaction that I thought of our hard-won pinnace safely moored in the harbor and recollected that there was nothing to call us to the wreck for the next few days. My attention was by no means monopolized by my sons and their amusements. The good mother had much to show me demanding my approval, advice, or assistance, as the case might be. A good supply of wild pigeons and orto-lands had been snared, partly cooked, and preserved in lard. Of these she showed me her small cask, well-filled. Then the nests of various pairs of tame pigeons were exhibited, but her chief care was the unpromising condition of her dear little fruit trees, for having been forgotten they were so dry and withered that unless planted without further delay she feared we should lose them. This needful work we set about there for at once, proposing afterward an excursion to the Calabash wood in order to manufacture a large supply of vessels and utensils of all sorts and sizes. Everyone was inclined for this expedition, consequently the planting of the orchard was carried on with surprising vigor, but was not completed until toward evening, and then all sorts of arrangements were made for an early start next day. The mother and fronts were to be of the party, and their equipment took some time, for we meant to make a grand family excursion attended by our domestic pets and servants. By sunrise we were all a stir, and everything quickly made ready for a start. The sledge, loaded with ammunition and baskets of provisions and drawn by the donkey, was to be used for carrying home our gourd-manufactures, as well as any other prize we might fall in with. Turk, as usual, headed the procession, clad in his coat of mail. Then came the boys with their guns and game-bags. Their mother and I followed, and behind trotted Juno, not in very good spirits, poor dog, because Master Knips, who had no idea of being left alone, must needs ride on her back. On this occasion I took two guns with me, one loaded with shot for game, another with ball for our defence against beasts of prey. Flamingo Marsh was quickly crossed, and the magnificent country beyond lay extended in all its beauty and fertility before our eyes. It was new to my wife and two of the boys, and the lovely prospect enchanted them. Here Fritz and Jack turned aside into the bush, where presently loud barking was followed by the quick report of a gun, and a large bird, which had risen from the thicket, fell heavily to the ground before us. Far from resigning itself, however, to death or captivity, it sprung to its feet, and, unable to fly, rushed away with extraordinary speed, hotly pursued by the excited dog, while Fritz ran, panting in the same direction, and Juno, eager to join the chase, sprang aside so suddenly that her rider was flung unceremoniously on the sand, as she darted to intercept the retreat of the active bird. This she cleverly accomplished, but its defence was maintained so fiercely, as it struck out with its powerful legs and sharp claws, that neither Fritz nor the dogs could master it. I hastened to their assistance, and found Juno holding on nobly by the wings she had seized, while the bird, which proved to be a magnificent buster, struggled and fought fiercely. Watching my opportunity, I threw a large handkerchief over it, and with difficulty succeeded in binding its legs and wings. It was born in triumph to the rest of our party, who, meantime, had been reclining on the sand. What have you got? What has Fritz shot? cried the boys, starting up at our approach. A bustard! Oh, that is splendid! To be sure it is the one we missed that day, don't you remember, mother? Ah-ha, old fellow, you are done for this time, said Jack. I think this is a hen bustard. It is the mother bird, said Ernest. Ah, yes, poor thing, exclaimed my wife, in a tone of concern. It is most likely the same, and I know she had a brood of young birds, and now they will be left unprotected and miserable. Had we not better let her go? Why, my dear, kind-hearted wife, that was weeks and weeks ago, those little birds are all strong and big by this time, and I daresay Mrs. Bustard here has forgotten all about them. Besides, she is badly wounded, and we must try to cure the hurt. If we succeed, she will be a valuable addition to our poultry-yard. If we cannot, you shall roast her for dinner. Resuming our march, we next arrived at the Monkey Grove, which was the scene of the tragicomic adventure by which Fritz became the guardian of the orphan ape. While he amused us all by a lively and graphic description of the scene, Ernest was standing apart under a splendid coconut palm, gazing in fixed admiration at the grand height of the stem and its beautiful, graceful crown of leaves. The cluster of nuts beneath these evidently added interest to the spectacle for drawing quietly near him. I heard a long drawn sigh, and the words It's awfully high. I wish one would fall down. Scarcely had he uttered these words, then, as if by magic, down plumped a huge nut at his feet. The boy was quite startled, and sprang aside, looking timidly upward when, to my surprise, down came another. Why, this is just like the fairy tale of the wishing-cap, cried Ernest. My wish is granted as soon as formed. I suspect the fairy in this instance is more anxious to pelt us and drive us away, than to bestow dainty gifts upon us, said I. I think there is most likely a cross-eyed old ape sitting up among those shadowy leaves and branches. We examined the nuts, thinking they were perhaps old ones, and had fallen in consequence naturally, but they were not even quite ripe. Anxious to discover what was in the tree, we all surrounded it, gaping and gazing upward with curious eyes. Hello, I see him, shouted Fritz presently. Oh, a hideous creature, what can it be? Flat, round, as big as a plate, and with a pair of horrid claws. Here he comes, he is going to creep down the tree. At this, little Franz slipped behind his mother. Ernest took a glance round to mark a place of retreat. Jack raised the end of his gun, and every eye was fixed on the trunk of the tree, down which a large land-crab commenced a leisurely descent. As it approached within reach, Jack hit at it boldly, when it suddenly dropped the remaining distance and, opening its great claws, sidled after him with considerable rapidity, upon which he fairly turned tail and ran. We all burst into a roar of laughter, which soon made him face about, and then, to our infinite amusement, the little fellow prepared for a fresh onset, laying down all he was carrying, pulling off his jacket and spreading it wide out in both hands, he returned to the charge, suddenly threw his garment over the creature, wrapped it well round it, and then pummeled it with all the strength of his fists. For a few minutes I could do nothing but laugh, but then running to him with my hatchet, I struck several sharp blows on his bundle, which we opened carefully, and found within the land-crab perfectly dead. Well, this is an ugly rascal, cried Jack. If he hadn't been so hideous, I should not have dealt so severely with him. I wasn't a bit afraid. What is the creature's name? This is a crab, a land-crab, said I, of which there are many varieties, and this, I think, is called a coconut-crab, or at least it deserves the name, for it is evidently very fond of eating these nuts, since it takes the trouble to climb the trees for them. The difficulty of getting at the kernel, too, is considerable. You showed no little presence of mind, Jack, when you thought of catching it in your jacket. In fact, it might have been more than a match for you otherwise, for some are most determined fighters, and are very swift, too. Now, let us take it, as well as the nuts, to the sledge, and go on our way. Progress became difficult, for we were constantly stopped in passing through the wood by having to cut away the hanging boughs and creeping plants which interlaced them. Ernest was behind, and by and by called me back to see what proved to be an important discovery. From the several stalks of one of these creepers flowed clear, cold water, and I recognized the Leon Rouge, which is known in America, and is so precious to the thirsty hunter or traveller. This is truly one of God's good gifts to man. The boys were much delighted with this curious plant. Only fancy mother, said Ernest, as he showed it to her, how cheering and refreshing to find this, if one were lost and alone in a vast forest, wandering for days and days without being near a natural spring of water. But are you certain it is safe to drink this, asked she? I assured her it was so, and advised the boys to cut enough to quench the thirst of the whole party, including our animals. This they did, only finding it necessary, as with the sugar canes, to cut air holes above the joints. After struggling onward for a short time, we emerged from the thickets into open ground, and saw the Calabash trees in the distance. As we drew near, their curious appearance and singular fruit caused much surprise and also amusement, for we were speedily established among the trees where, as I chose and cut down the gourds most likely to be useful, everyone engaged merrily in the work of cutting, carving, sawing, and scooping some manner of dish, bowl, cup, jar, or platter, according to his several taste or ability. We were to dine here, and after a time Fritz and Jack began to prepare a fireplace, their great ambition being to heat the stone's red hot and cook the crab in a hollow gourd. Their mother therefore left them to their own devices, and attended to the hungry animals, unharnessing the ass to grays, and giving coconut milk to the poor little monkey, who had been obliged to travel in a covered basket for some time, lest he should be lost in the woods. The wounded buster had been completely forgotten, and from heat and thirst was suffering greatly until her friendly care revived it, and it was tied to a tree, and allowed to move about, its fierce spirit greatly tamed by adversity. The cooking operations came to a stand soon after the fire was lighted, for it appeared that we had no more water in the jars we had brought, so the boys proposed to go in search of a spring. I agreed to accompany them. Ernest also wished to join us, and as our intention was to examine merely the surrounding wood, I saw no objection to leaving their mother and fronts for a short time. Very soon after our exploration began, Ernest, who was in front, turned with a face of terror, shouting, A wild boar! An immense wild boar, father, do come quick! And sure enough I heard a loud snorting and puffing, as some large animal passed hastily through the thick underwood beyond us. After him lads, after him cried I, hurrying forward, call the dogs, stand ready to fire. And we pressed through the bushes to the spot where Ernest had seen the creature. The ground was grubbed up, and some potatoes lay about, showing that we had disturbed him at his midday meal. Ernest and Jack were more disposed to gather the roots than to follow up the chase. Fritz and I alone went after the dogs, who eagerly pushed on, and by the sounds we heard had evidently attacked the boar at no great distance. Terrific barking, snarling, and grunting guided us to the scene of action, and we beheld our mastiffs, one on each side of a large, respectable-looking pig, holding on by the great ears while the animal, on seeing us, appeared rather to beseech our interference than to propose to offer a desperate resistance. In a moment the truth became apparent. The captive grunter was no fierce native of the forest, but our own runaway sow. Our excitement had been wound to so high a pitch that the discovery was quite a shock, and we felt half angry with the creature who had disappointed us. Then the absurdity of the whole thing made us laugh heartily, and, calling off the dogs, the old lady was released from her ignominious position. Our laughter resounding through the wood brought Ernest and Jack from their potatoes to see what was going on. Much use you two would have been, suppose we had required help, cried Fritz, as they recognized their old friend. Ah, well, you see, returned Jack. Ernest and I had a sort of kind of presentiment that this was going to be the old sow, and just look at our fine potatoes. A good deal of joking on the subject ensued, but was interrupted by Ernest, who drew our attention to fruit resembling apples on the surrounding bushes and on the grass beneath them. The sow was making amends for the fright and pain she had endured by munching and crunching this fruit at a great rate. Fritz feared that it might be the poisonous manchoneal against which I once warned him, but on examining it I was induced to pronounce a more favorable opinion, and we collected a quantity in hopes that, if the monkey approved of it as well as the old sow, we might be able to enjoy a feast ourselves. All this time not a drop of water had we seen, and our own thirst increasing we felt eager to procure some before returning to our resting place. Jack preceded us, and we made our way toward a high rock which rose above the thickets, when he suddenly startled us by a loud cry of, A crocodile, father, father, a crocodile! Nonsense, boy, a crocodile of all things in this dry, parched forest, where we can't get so much as a mouthful of water. On advancing to where Jack stood I perceived that his mistake was not so very silly after all, for I beheld an iguana, one of the largest of the lizard species, and a truly formidable-looking fellow. I was glad to assure Jack that the strange creature he had found was perfectly harmless, and that its flesh being esteemed to delicacy it would be a valuable prize to carry back with us. In another moment Fritz would have fired, but arresting his hand, your shot, I said, would probably only wound the animal, and being extremely tenacious of life it would certainly escape. We must gain possession of the sleeping beauty by a gentler method. You're not going to kiss it, are you, father? asked Jack with a grin. I tried to rebuke him for his impertinence, but failing I commenced operations. I first attached a cord and running noose to a stout stick, and holding a light switch in my other hand, I began to approach the creature with soft, slow steps, while the boys looked on with the utmost curiosity. Presently I began very softly to whistle a sweet yet very lively air, which I continued more and more distinctly as I drew near the lizard, until, awaking, it seemed to listen with pleasure, raising its head as though better to catch the sounds, or to discover once they came. When near enough I began gently to stroke and tickle him with the wand, continuing to whistle the prettiest tunes I could think of, and the lizard gave signs of pleasurable contentment, stretching his limbs and moving his tail in token of enjoyment. Suddenly, availing myself of a movement of his head, I cast the noose over it, drew the cord tight, and placing my foot on the body I was about to kill it by piercing the nostril—almost the only vulnerable part in this singular reptile—when Jack received such a blow from its tail, which was furiously driving in all directions, as sent him rolling over like a nine-pin. At the same time he opened his jaws, when the boys took fright at the row of sharp teeth, and thinking that the sooner he was dead the better were for battering him with sticks, but I assuring them my method would kill him more quickly and without pain thrust my rod into his nostril, on which the blood flowed and the lizard soon expired. The boys seemed to think me as a wonderful a person as a snake-charmer, and the success of my stratagem, as well as of the means by which the lizard was slain, called forth great admiration, since they had never heard of the animal, nor of the method of capturing it so commonly practiced in the West Indies. Now came the question of how we were to carry this unwieldy burden. I had a great dislike to killing any creature and leaving it useless behind me, so without more ado I fairly took it on my back and marched off with it. As we came toward the Calabash wood we could hear the voices of the deserted mother and child calling us in anxious tones, for indeed our protracted absence alarmed them. We shouted joyously in reply, and our appearance, as we issued from the woods, afforded them welcome relief from their fears, although the dreadful creature on my back startled them not a little. There was so much to tell, so much to be seen, that for a time hunger and thirst were forgotten, and no one thought even of the water we had vainly gone in search of, until Master Knips, having slyly possessed himself of some of our newfound apples, was discovered munching away and enjoying them amazingly, which instantly gave the boys a strong wish to eat some also, and as the buster likewise pecked at them without hesitation I felt sure there could be no danger, and on tasting them I concluded it was the fruit of the guava, a West Indian plant which we were delighted to have. Although refreshing this fruit rather sharpened than appeased our appetites, and we were glad to eat the provisions we had brought from home without waiting to cook anything, as we had originally intended. It was in fact high time to move homeward, and we thought it best not to encumber ourselves with the sledge and the greater part of its load, but to leave it until the next day. The ass was laden with the iguana and the bustered, and little France, tired as he was, looked in vain for a spare seat on its back. Our road home lay through a majestic forest of oak trees, beneath which lay numberless acorns, some of which we gathered as we went along, and at length, before night closed in, we all reached Falconhurst in safety. When supper was ready, we were thankful to recruit our exhausted strength by eating heartily of a piece of broiled iguana with potatoes and roast acorns, which tasted like excellent chestnuts. End of Chapter 6 Part 2 Read by Kara Schellenberg on July 16, 2009 in San Diego, California. The first thing to be done on the following day was to return to the Calabash wood to fetch the sledge with the dishes, bowls, and baskets we had made. Fritz alone accompanied me. I desired the other boys to remain with their mother, intending to explore beyond the chain of rocky hills, and thinking a large party undesirable on the occasion. Passing through the wood of evergreen oaks, we observed our sow feasting on the acorns, evidently not a whit the worse for the fright we had given her the previous day. In fact, she appeared more friendly disposed toward us than usual, possibly considering us as her deliverers from the jaws of the savage dogs. Many birds tenanted this grove, and were undisturbed by our movements, until Fritz fired and shot a beautiful blue jay and a couple of parakeets, one a brilliant scarlet, the other green and gold. Fritz was in the act of reloading his gun when an unaccountable noise struck our ears and put us instantly on the alert, because it appeared like the dull thumping sound of a muffled drum, and reminded us of the possible presence of savages. With the greatest caution we drew near the sound, concealing ourselves among the low bushes and thick grass and creepers, until we reached an open glade, where, standing on an old prostrate log, was a beautiful bird, about the size of a cock, of a rich chestnut brown color, finely mottled with dark brown and gray. On the shoulders were curious tufts of velvety black feathers, glossed with green. He was ruffling his wings, erecting his tail and neck feathers, strutting and wheeling about in a most strange and stately fashion. After maneuvering for some time in this manner, greatly to the edification of a party of birds resembling him, but without any ruff, who, assembled round the stump, were enjoying his performances. He spread out his tail like a fan, stiffened his wings, and began to strike with them in short, rapid beats, faster and faster, until a rumbling sound very like distant thunder was produced, and the whoring wings enveloped him as in a cloud. This was the drumming noise which had alarmed us, increased, as I imagine, by the wing strokes falling at times on the decayed and hollow stump on which the curious pantomime was acted. I was watching it with the utmost interest, when a shot from behind me was fired, and in a moment the play was at an end. My overhasty son had changed the pretty comedy into a sad and needless tragedy. The enthusiastic drummer fell dead from his perch, and the crowd of admiring companions fled in dismay. The cruel interruption of a scene so rare and remarkable annoyed me extremely, and I blamed Fritz for firing without my leave. I felt sure the bird was the ruffled grouse, and a very fine specimen. We placed it on the ass, which was patiently awaiting our return, and went on our way. The sledge was quite safe where we had left it. It was early in the day, and I resolved to explore, as I had intended, a line of cliff and rocky hills which, at more or less distance from the seashore, extended the whole length of coast known or visible to us. I desired to discover an opening, if any existed, by which to penetrate the interior of the country, or to ascertain positively that we were walled in and isolated on this portion of the coast. Leaving Calabash wood behind us, we advanced over ground covered with manioc, potatoes, and many plants unknown to us. Pleasant streamlets watered the fruitful soil, and the view on all sides was open and agreeable. Some bushes attracted my notice, loaded with small white berries of peculiar appearance like wax, and very sticky when plucked. I recognized in this a plant called bybotanists, Myrica cerifera, and with much pleasure explained to Fritz that, by melting and straining these berries, we might easily succeed in making candles, and afford very great satisfaction to the mother, who did not at all approve of having to lay her work aside and retire to rest the moment the sun set. The greenish wax to be obtained would be more brittle than beeswax, but it would burn very fairly, and diffuse an agreeable perfume. Having the ass with us, we lost no time in gathering berries enough to fill one of the large canvas bags he carried, and we then continued our route. Very soon we met with another natural curiosity, the curious appearance of which surprised us much. This was the abode, under one roof, of a whole colony of birds, about the size of yellow hammers but of plain brown plumage. The nests were built in a mass round the stem and among the branches of a tree standing alone, and a kind of roof formed of grass, straws, and fibers covered them all, and sheltered the community from rain and the heat of the sun. There were numbers of openings into the irregular sides of the group of dwellings, the nests resembling different apartments in a house common to all. Twigs and small branches emerged here and there from the walls, and served as purchase for the young birds, and resting places and posts of observation for all. The general appearance of the establishment reminded us of a huge bath sponge. The feathered inhabitants swarmed in and out by thousands, and we saw among them many beautiful little parrots, who seemed in many instances to contest possession of the nest with the lawful owners. Fritz, being an expert climber and exceedingly anxious to examine the nests more closely, ascended the tree, hoping to obtain one or two young birds, if any were hatched. He put his hand into several holes, which were empty, but at last his intended theft and robbery met with repulse and chastisement he little expected, for, reaching far back into the nest, his finger was seized and sharply bitten by a very strong beak, so that with a cry he withdrew his hand and shook it vigorously to lessen the pain. Recovering from the surprise, he again and more resolutely seized the unkind bird, and, despite its shrieks and screams, drew it from its retreat, crammed it into his pocket, buttoned up his coat and slid quickly to the ground, pursued by numbers of the captive's relatives who darted from the other holes, and flew round the robber, screeching and pecking at him in a rage. Fritz's prize was not one of the real owners of the nests, which were those of the sociable Grossbeek, but a very pretty small green parrot, with which he was greatly pleased, and which he at once determined to tame and teach to speak, for the present it was carefully remanded to prison in his pocket. This curious colony of birds afforded us matter for conversation as we went on our way, their cheerful sociable habits, and the instinct which prompted them to unite in labor for the common good, appearing most wonderful to us. Examples of the kind, however, said I, are numerous in various classes of animals. Beavers, for instance, build and live together in a very remarkable way. Among insects, bees, wasps, and ants are well known as social architects. In like manner the coral insect works wonders beneath the ocean waves by force of perseverance and united effort. I have often watched ants at work, said Fritz. It is most amusing to see how they carry on the various works and duties of their common wealth. Have you ever noticed how much trouble they take with the eggs, inquired I, to see how far he understood the process, carrying them about in the warmth of the sun until they are hatched? Ah, that is rather the chrysalis of the antworm, or larvae which is produced from an egg. I know they are called ants' eggs, but, strictly speaking, that is incorrect. You are perfectly right, my boy. Well, if you have taken so much interest in watching the little ants of your native country, how delighted and astonished you would be to see the wonders performed by the vast tribes of large ants in foreign lands. Some of these build heaps or nests, four or six feet high and proportionately broad, which are so strong and firm that they defy equally sunshine and rain. They are within divided into regular streets, galleries, vaults, and nurseries. So firmly are these mounds built that, with interior alterations, a deserted one might be used for a baking oven. The ant, although respected since the days of King Solomon as a model of industry, is not in itself an attractive insect. It exudes a sticky moisture, its smell is unpleasant, and it destroys and devours whatever eatable comes in its way. Although in our own country it does little harm, the large ants of foreign lands are most destructive and troublesome. It being very difficult to check their depredations. Fortunately they have enemies by whose exertions their numbers are kept down. Birds, other insects, and even four-footed beasts prey upon them. Chief among the latter is the ant bear, or a taminoir, of South America, a large creature six or seven feet in length, covered with long coarse hair, drooping like a heavy plume over the hind quarters. The head is wonderfully elongated and very narrow. It is destitute of teeth, and the tongue resembles somewhat a great red earthworm. It has immensely strong curved claws, with which it tears and breaks down and scratches two pieces, the hard walls of the ant heaps, then protruding its sticky tongue. It coils and twists it about among the terrified millions disturbed by its attack. They adhere to this horrible invader, and are drawn irresistibly backward into the hungry toothless jaws awaiting them. The little ant eater is not more than about 21 inches in length, has a shorter and more natural looking head, and fine silky fur. It usually lives in trees. I was pleased to find my memory served me so well on this subject, as it interested my boy amazingly, and occupied us for a considerable time while we travelled onward. Arriving presently at a grove of tall trees, with very strong broad thick leaves, we paused to examine them. They bore a round fig-like fruit, full of little seeds, and of a sour harsh taste. Fritz saw some gummy resin exuding from cracks in the bark, and it reminded him of the boyish delight afforded by collecting gum from cherry trees at home, so that he must need stop to scrape off as much as he could. He rejoined me presently, attempting to soften what he had collected in his hands, but finding it would not work like gum, he was about to fling it away, when he suddenly found that he could stretch it, and that it sprang back to its original size. Oh, Father, only look! This gum is quite elastic. Can it possibly be India rubber? What cried I? Let me see it! A valuable discovery that would be indeed, and I do believe you are perfectly right. Why would it be so very valuable, Father? inquired Fritz. I have only seen it used for rubbing out pencil marks. India rubber, I replied, or, more properly, cout choke, is a milky, resinous juice which flows from certain trees in considerable quantities when the stem is purposely tapped. These trees are indigenous to the South American countries of Brazil, Guiana, and Cayenne. The natives who first obtained it used to form bottles by smearing earthen flasks with repeated coatings of the gum when just fresh from the trees, and when hardened and sufficiently thick, they broke the mold, shook out the fragments, and hung the bottles in the smoke, when they became firmer and of a dark color. While moist, the savages were in the habit of drawing rude figures and lines on the resin by way of ornament. These marks you may have observed, for the bottles obtained from the natives by the Spaniards and Portuguese, have for years been brought to Europe and cut into portions to be sold for use in drawing. Cout choke can be put to many uses, and I am delighted to have it here, as we shall, I hope, be able to make it into different forms. First and foremost, I shall try to manufacture boots and shoes. Soon after making this discovery, we reached the coconut wood, and saw the bay extending before us, and the great promontory we called Cape Disappointment, which hitherto had always bounded our excursions. In passing through the wood, I remarked a smaller sort of palm, which, among its grand companions, I had not previously noticed. One of these had been broken by the wind, and I saw that the pith had a peculiar, mealy appearance, and I felt convinced that this was the world-renowned sego palm. In the pith I saw some fat worms or maggots, and suddenly recollected that I had heard of them before as feeding on the sego, and that in the West Indies they are eaten as a delicacy. I felt inclined to try what they tasted like, so at once kindling a fire, and placing some half-dozen, sprinkled with salt, on a little wooden spit, I set them to roast. Very soon rich fat began to drop from them, and they smelt so temptingly good that all repugnance to the idea of eating worms vanished, and, putting one like a pat of butter on a baked potato, I boldly swallowed it, and liked it so much that several others followed in the same way. Fritz also summoned courage to partake of this novel food, which was a savoury addition to our dinner of baked potatoes. Being once more ready to start, we found so dense a thicket in the direct route that we turned aside without attempting to penetrate it, and made our way toward the sugar break near Cape Disappointment. This we could not pass without cutting a handsome bundle of sugar canes, and the donkey carried that, in addition to the bag of waxberries. In time we reached the sledge in Calabash Wood. The ass was unloaded, everything placed on the sledge, and our patient beast began calmly and readily to drag the burden he had hitherto borne on his back. No further adventure befell us, and we arrived in the evening at Falconhurst, where our welcome was as warm as usual. All we had to tell listened to with the greatest interest, all we had to show most eagerly examined, the pretty green parakeet enchanting the boys most particularly. An excellent supper was ready for us, and with thankful hearts we enjoyed it together. Then, ascending to our tree-castle, and drawing up the latter after us, we betook ourselves to the repose well-earned and greatly needed after this fatiguing day. The idea of candle-making seemed to have taken the fancy of all the boys, and next morning they woke, one after the other, with the word candle on their lips. When they were thoroughly roused, they continued to talk candles, all breakfast time, candles were the subject of conversation, and after breakfast they would hear of nothing else but setting to work at once, and making candles. So be it, said I, let us become chandlers. I spoke confidently, but to tell the truth, I had in my own mind certain misgivings as to the result of our experiment. In the first place I knew that we lacked a very important ingredient, animal fat, which is necessary to make candles burn for any length of time with brilliancy. Besides this I rather doubted how far my memory would recall the various operations necessary in the manufacture. Of all this, however, I said nothing, and the boys under my direction were soon at work. We first picked off the berries, and threw them into a large, shallow iron vessel placed on the fire. The green, sweet-scented wax was rapidly melted, rising to the surface of the juice yielded by the berries. This we skimmed off, and placed in a separate pot by the fire, ready for use. Repeating the operation several times, until we had collected sufficient liquid wax for our purpose. I then took the wicks my wife had prepared, and dipped them one after the other into the wax, handing them as I did so to fritz, who hung them up on a bush to dry. The coating they thus obtained was not very thick, but by repeating the operation several times, they at length assumed very fair proportions, and became real sturdy candles. Our wax being at an end we hung these in a cool shady place to harden, and that same night we sat up like civilized beings three whole hours after sunset, and Falcon Hurst was, for the first time, brilliantly illuminated. We were all delighted with the success of our experiment. You are indeed clever, said my wife. I only wish that with your ingenuity you would show me how to make butter. Day after day I have the annoyance of seeing a large supply of good cream go bad under my very eyes, simply because I have no use to which to put it. Invent a plan, please do. I think that perhaps I can help you, I replied, after a little consideration. Not that I can claim the honour of the invention of my plan, that is due to the Hutton tots. I will see what I can do. Jack, bring me one of our gourd bottles. I took the gourd, one of those I had previously prepared, with a small hole at one end, and well hollowed out and cleaned. This I partially filled with cream, and then corked up the hole tightly. Here, boys, said I, you can continue the operation while I turn carpenter and make a cart to take the place of our sledge. I gave them their directions, and then set about my own work. They fixed four posts in the ground, and to them fastened a square piece of sailcloth by four cords attached to the corners. In this cradle they placed the gourd of cream, and each taking a side, rolled it backward and forward continuously for half an hour. Now I cried, looking up from my work, open the gourd, and take the contents to your mother, with my compliments. They did so, and my good wife's eyes were delighted with the sight of a large lump of capital fresh butter. With my son's assistance the cart was in time completed, a clumsy vehicle it was, but strong enough for any purpose to which we might put it, and, as it proved, of immense use to us in collecting the harvest. We then turned our attention to our fruit trees, which we had planted in a plot, ready for transplanting. The walnut, cherry, and chestnut trees we arranged in parallel rows, so as to form a shady avenue from Falconhurst to Family Bridge, and between them we laid down a tolerable road that we might have no difficulty in reaching Tentholm, be the weather bad as it might. We planted the vines round the arched roots of our great mangrove, and the rest of the trees in suitable spots, some near Falconhurst, and others away over Jekyll River, to adorn Tentholm. Tentholm had been the subject of serious thoughts to me for some time past, and I now turned all my attention thither. It was not my ambition to make it beautiful, but to form of it a safe place of refuge in a case of emergency. My first care, therefore, was to plant a thick prickly hedge capable of protecting us from any wild animal, and forming a tolerable obstacle to the attack of even savages should they appear. Not satisfied with this, however, we fortified the bridge, and on a couple of hillocks mounted two guns which we brought from the wreck, and with whose angry mouths we might bark defiance at any enemy, man or beast. Six weeks slipped away while we were thus busily occupied, six weeks of hard yet pleasant labour. We greeted each Sunday and its accompanying rest most gratefully, and on that day always, especially, thanked God for our continued health and safety. I soon saw that this hard work was developing in the boy's remarkable strength, and this I encouraged by making them practice running, leaping, climbing, and swimming. I also saw, however, that it was having a less satisfactory effect upon their clothes, which, though a short time before remarkably neat, were now, in spite of the busy mothers mending and patching, most untidy and disreputable. I determined, therefore, to pay another visit to the wreck, to replenish our wardrobe, and to see how much longer the vessel was likely to hold together. Three of the boys and I went off in the penis. The old ship seemed in much the same condition as when we had left her. A few more planks had gone, but that was all. Come, boys, cried I, not an article of the slightest value must be left on board. Rummage her out to the very bottom of her hold. They took me at my word. Sailors' chests, bales of cloth and linen, a couple of small guns, ball and shot, tables, benches, window shutters, bolts and locks, barrels of pitch, all were soon in a heap on the deck. We loaded the penis and went on shore. We soon returned with our tub-boat in tow, and after a few more trips, nothing was left on board. One more trip, said I to my wife, before we started again. And there will be the end of the brave ship which carried us from Switzerland. I have left two barrels of gunpowder on board, and mean to blow her up. Before we lighted the fusee I discovered a large copper cauldron which I thought I might save. I made fast to it a couple of empty casks, that when the ship went up it might float. The barrels were placed, the train lighted, and we returned on shore. The supper was laid outside the tent, at a spot from whence we might obtain a good view of the wreck. Darkness came on. Suddenly a vivid pillar of fire rose from the black waters, a sullen roar boomed across the sea, and we knew that our good old ship was no more. We had planned the destruction of the vessel, we knew that it was for the best, and yet that night we went to bed with a feeling of sadness in our hearts, as though we had lost a dear old friend. End of Chapter 7 Part 1, read by Kara Schellenberg on July 17, 2009, in San Diego, California.