 CHAPTER XI by well-known ways The cave in which Mr. Wollstone, Ernest and Jack had spent the night four months before, on the day before the English flag was planted at the summit of Jeans-a-Map Peak, was that evening full of happiness. If no one enjoyed a tranquil sleep, sleeplessness was not due to bad dreams, but to the excitement of the recent happenings. After their prayer of thanksgiving, they had all declined to delay a minute longer at the summit of the peak. Not for two hours were day-yield to-night, and that time would be long enough for them to reach the foot of the range. It would be very strange, Fritz remarked, if we could not find some cave large enough to shelter us all. Besides, Frank answered, we shall be lying under the trees, under the trees of New Switzerland, New Switzerland. He could not refrain from saying the dear name over and over again, the name that was blessed by all. Speak it again, Dolly dear, he exclaimed. Say it again, that I may hear it once more. New Switzerland! laughed the girl, her eyes shining with happiness. New Switzerland! Jenny repeated, holding Fritz's hand in her own. And there was not one of them, not even Bob, who did not echo it. Well, good people, said Captain Harry Gould. If we have made up our minds to go down to the foot of the mountain, we have no time to lose. What about eating, John Block inquired, and how are we to get food on the way? In forty-eight hours we shall be a rock castle, Frank declared. Besides, Fritz said, isn't there any quantity of game on the plains of New Switzerland? And how are you going to hunt it without guns? Captain Gould inquired. Clever as Fritz and Frank are, I hardly imagine them merely by pointing a stick. Poo! Fritz answered. Haven't we got legs? You'll see, Captain, before midday tomorrow we shall have real meat instead of that turtle stuff. We must not abuse the turtles, Fritz, said Jenny, if only out of gratitude. You are quite right, wife, but let us be off. Bob doesn't want to stay here any longer, do you, Bob? No, no, the child replied. Not if Papa and Mama are coming, too. And to think, said the boatswain, Slyly, to think that down there in the south we have got a beautiful beach where turtles and mussels swarm, and a beautiful cave where there are provisions for several weeks, and in that cave a beautiful bed of seaweed, and we are going to leave all that for... We will come back for our treasures by and by, Fritz promised, but still John Block persisted. Oh, shut up, you wretched fellow, Captain Gould ordered, laughing. I'll shut up, Captain. There are only two words more I should like to say. What are they? Cut away! As usual, Fritz took the lead. They descended the cone without any difficulty, and reached the foot of the range. Some, happy instinct, a genuine sense of direction, had led them to take the same path as Mr. Walston, Ernest, and Jack had taken. And it was barely eight o'clock when they reached the edge of the vast pine forest, and by a no less happy chance. There seemed nothing surprising in it, for they had entered upon the season of happy chances. The boatswain found the cave in which Mr. Walston and the two brothers had taken shelter. It was rather small, but large enough for Jenny and Dolly and Susan and little Bob. The men could sleep in the open air. They could tell, from the white ashes of a fire, that the cave had been occupied before. Perhaps all the members of the two families had crossed this forest, and climbed the peak on which the British flag was waving. After supper, when Bob had fallen asleep in a corner of the cave, they talked long, notwithstanding all the fatigue of the day, and the talk turned upon the flag. During the week that they had been held prisoners, the ship must have sailed northwards. The only explanation of that could be the persistence of contrarian winds, for it was manifestly to the interest of Robert Burrupt and the crew to reach the far waters of the Pacific. If they had not done so, it was because the weather had prevented them. The journey now went to show that the flag had been driven towards the Indian Ocean into the proximity of New Switzerland. Reckoning the time that had passed and the course that had been followed since the boat had been cast adrift, the incontestable conclusion followed that on that day Harry Gould and his companions could not have been much more than a couple of hundred miles from the desired island, though they had imagined themselves separated from it by a thousand or more. The boat had touched land on the southern coast, which Fritz and Frank did not know at all, the other side of the mountain range, which they had seen for the first time when they came out into the Green Valley. Who could have dreamed that there could be such an amazing difference in the nature of the soil and its products between the ridge country to the north of the range and the arid plateau which extended from the peak to the sea? Now they could understand the arrival of the albatross on the other side of the cliff. After Jenny Montrose's departure, the bird had probably returned to Burning Rock once it flew sometimes to the shore of New Switzerland, though it had never gone either to Falconhurst or Rock Castle. What a big part the faithful bird had played in their salvation. It was to him that they owed the discovery of that second cavern into which little Bob had followed him and, as a consequence, the finding of the passage which came out on the top of the cliff. The conversation lasted far into the night, but at last fatigue overcame them and they slept, but at early dawn they took some food and set out again in high spirits. Beside the traces of fire in the cave, the little band encountered other signs in the forest and the open country. The trampled grass and broken branches were caused by the constant movement of animals, ruminants, or beasts of prey, but it was impossible to be under any mis- apprehension when they came upon the traces of encampment. Beside, Fritz pointed out, who but our own people could have planted the flag on the summit of that peak? Lest it went and planted itself there, the boatswain replied with a laugh. Which would not be a surprising thing for an English flag to do? Fritz replied cheerfully. There are quite a lot of places where it would seem to have grown by itself. Led by Fritz, the party descended the first slopes of the range, which were partly covered by the forest. Great obstacles to overcome or serious risks to be incurred seemed unlikely on the way from the range to the promised land. The distance between the two points might be estimated at twenty miles. If they did ten miles a day, with a halt for two hours at midday and slept one night on the way, they could reach the defile of clues in the evening of the following day. From the defile to Rock Castle or to Falconhurst would be a matter of a few hours only. Ah, said Frank, if we only had our two good buffaloes, Storm and Grumbler, or Fritz's Onager, or whirlwind Jack's Ostrich, it would only take us one day to get to Rock Castle. I am sure that Frank forgot to post the letter we wrote, asking them to send the animals to us, Jenny answered merrily. What, Frank, did you forget, asked Fritz, a thoughtful, attentive fellow like you? No, said Frank, it was Jenny who forgot to tie a note to Albatross's leg before he flew off. How thoughtless of me, the young woman exclaimed. But it is not certain the postman would have taken the letter to the right address, Dolly said. Who knows, Frank replied. Everything that is happening now is so extraordinary. Well, said Captain Gould, since we can't count upon Storm or Grumbler or whirlwind or the Onager, the best thing we can do is trust to our own legs. And to step lively, John Block added. They started with the firm intention only to halt at midday. From time to time, James and Frank and the boatswain carried Bob, although the child wanted to walk. So they lost no time crossing the forest. James and Susan Walston, who knew nothing of the marvels of New Switzerland, were filled with constant admiration of the luxuriant vegetation, which is far finer than that of Cape Colony. And yet, they were only in the part of the island which was left to itself and had never been touched by the hand of man. What would it be like when they came to the cultivated portion of the district, to the farms at Eberfurt, Sugarcane Grove, Wood Grange and Prospect Hill, the rich territory of the Promised Land? Game abounded everywhere. Agoutis, peccaries, cavies, antelopes and rabbits. Besides bustards, partridges, grouse, hazel hens, guinea fowls and ducks. Fritz and Frank had good reason to regret not having their sporting guns with them. The cavies and peccaries and agoutis would not let anyone come near them, and it seemed likely that they would be reduced to finishing what was left of their provisions for the next meal. But then, the question of food was resolved by a stroke of luck. About eleven o'clock, Fritz, walking in front, made a sign for everyone to stop at the edge of a little clearing crossed by a narrow stream, on the bank of which an animal was quenching its thirst. It was an antelope, and it meant wholesome and refreshing meat if only they could contrive to capture it somehow. The simplest plan seemed to be to make a ring around the clearing, without allowing themselves to be seen, and directly the antelope attempted to break out, to stop its way, regardless of danger from its horns, overpower and kill it. The difficulty was to carry through this operation, without alarming the animal, whose sight is so keen, hearing so sharp, and scent so delicate. While Jenny and Susan and Dolly and Bob halted behind a bush, Fritz, Frank, James, Captain Gould, and the boatswain, armed only with their pocket knives, began to work around the clearing, keeping well under cover in the thickets. The antelope went on drinking at the stream, showing no signs of uneasiness, until Fritz got up sharply and uttered a loud shout. At once the animal sprang up, stretched out its neck and jumped towards the break, which it could have cleared in a single leap. It made for the side where Frank and John Block were standing, each with a knife in hand. The beast sprang, but took off badly, fell back, bowled the boatswain over, and struggled to rise. Then up came Fritz, and, throwing himself upon the animal, succeeded in driving his knife into its flank, but this one blow would not have been sufficient, if Captain Gould had not succeeded in cutting its throat. The animal lay motionless among the branches, and the boatswain got up nimbly. Confounded, brute, exclaimed John Block, who had escaped with a few bruises. I've shipped more than one heavy sea in my time, but never been bowled over like that. I hope you are not much hurt, Block? Captain Gould asked. No, only scratched, and that don't matter, Captain. What annoys me is to have been turned upside down like that. Well, to make up for it, we will keep the best bit for you, Jenny Anne said. No, Mrs. Fritz, no, no. I would rather have the bit that pitched me to the ground. That was its head. I want the animal's head. They set to work to cut up the antelope and take out the edible parts, since they were now assured of food to last them until the evening of the following day. There would be no need for them to trouble further about it before they got to the defile of clues. Fritz and Frank were no novices where the preparation of game was concerned. Had they not studied it in theory and in practice in 12 years, hunting among the grasslands and woods of the Promised Land, nor was the boatswain clumsy over the job, he seemed to derive real revengeful pleasure in skinning the animal. Within a quarter of an hour, the haunches, cutlets, and other savory portions were ready to be grilled over the embers. As it was nearly noon, it seemed best to camp in the clearing where the stream would furnish clear fresh water. Captain Gould and James lighted a wood fire at the foot of a mangrove. Then Fritz placed the best bits of the antelope over the glowing embers and left Susan and Holly to superintend the cooking. By a lucky chance, Jenny had just found a quantity of roots such as can be roasted in the ashes. They were of a kind to satisfy hungry stomachs and would agreeably complete the bill of fair for luncheon. No flesh is more delicate than that of the antelope, which is both fragrant and tender and everybody agreed that this was a real treat. How good it is, John Block exclaimed, to eat real meat which has walked in its lifetime and not crawled clumsily over the ground. We won't cry down turtles, Captain Gould replied, not even to sing the praises of antelope. The captain is right, said Jenny. Without those excellent creatures, which have fed us ever since we got to the island, what would have become of us? Then here's luck to turtles, cried the boatswain, but give me another job. When this refreshing meal was finished, they set out once more. They had no time to lose if the afternoon stage was to complete the 10 miles planned for the day. If Fritz and Frank had been alone, they would have paid no heed to fatigue. They would have marched all night and made a single stage of the whole journey to the defile. They may have had the idea now, and it was certainly very tempting, but they could have got to rock castle in the afternoon of the following day. But they did not venture to suggest going on ahead. Besides, think of the happiness of all arriving together at their much desired goal, to throw themselves into the arms of the relations and friends who had been waiting so long for them who might have lost all hope of ever seeing them again. The second stage was done under the same conditions as the first, in order to husband the strength of Jenny and Dolly and Susan Walston. No incident occurred, and about four o'clock in the afternoon, the edge of the forest was reached. A fertile champagne extended beyond. Its vegetation was entirely due to the productivity of the soil, verdant grasslands and woods or clumps of trees studding the country right up to the entrance to the Green Valley. A few herds of stags and deer passed in the distance, but there was no question of hunting them. Numerous flocks of ostriches were also seen, reminding Fritz and Frank of their expedition to the country near the Arabian Watchtower. Several elephants appeared as well. They moved quietly through the thick woods, and one could imagine the longing eyes with which Jack would have regarded them if he had been there. Well, we have been away, Fritz said. Jack may have succeeded in capturing an elephant and taming and training it, as we did Storm and Grumbler and Lightfoot. It's quite possible, dear, Jenny answered. After 14 months' absence, we must expect to find something new in New Switzerland. Our second fatherland, Frank said. A home already picturing other houses there, Holly exclaimed, and other farms, perhaps a village even. Well, said the boatswain, I could be quite content with what we see about us, and I can't imagine anything better in your island than we have here. It is nothing compared with the promised land, Mr. Block, Dolly declared. Nothing, Jenny agreed. And so Matt gave it that Bible name because it deserved it, and we, more blessed than the children of Israel, are about to set foot in the land of Canaan. And John Block admitted they were right. At six o'clock they stopped for the night. There was little likelihood of change in the weather at this season, and the cold was not formidable. Indeed, they had suffered rather from heat during the day, in spite of the fact that they were in the shelter of the trees during the hottest hours. After that, a few isolated woods and corpses had enabled them to walk in the shade without wandering too far from the direct route. Supper was prepared, as the earlier meal had been, before a crackling fire of dry wood. This night would not be spent within a cave, but with fatigue to rock them, not one of them lay awake. As a matter of precaution, however, Fritz and Frank and the boatswain decided to keep alternate watch. When darkness fell, roaring could be heard in the far distance. There were wild beasts in this part of the island. Next morning, a start was made at daybreak. They hoped to get through the defile of clues in the second stage of the journey, if they met with no obstacles on the way. There were no more hardships about the march today than there had been the day before. They went from wood to wood, so to speak, avoiding as much as possible the rays of the sun. After the midday meal, taken by the side of a fast-running river 20 to 30 yards in width, flowing towards the north, they merely had to go along the left bank. Neither Fritz nor Frank knew this river, since their expeditions had never brought them into the heart of the island. They had no idea that it had already received a name, that it was called the Montrose, as they had no knowledge of the new name of Jean-Somart Peake, on whose summit the British flag was floating. What a pleasure it would be to Jenny to learn that this river bore the name of her family. After marching for an hour, they left the Montrose, which bore off sharply to the east. Two hours later, Fritz and Frank, who had taken the lead, set foot at length on country known to them. The Green Valley! They shouted and saluted it with a cheer. It was the Green Valley, and now they only had to get to the rampart and closing the promised land to be at the defile of clues. This time, no consideration, no hunger or fatigue, could have availed to hold back any of them. Following Fritz and Frank, they all hurried forwards, although the path was steep. They seemed to be impelled forcibly towards the goal, which they had despaired of ever attaining. Oh, if only by some extraordinary good luck, because a mat and Mr. Wilston might be at the Hermitage at Eberford, and their families with them as the custom was during the summer season. But that would have been too good to be true, as people say. Not even John Block dared to hope for it. The beams across the entrance were all in place, fixed firmly between interstices among rocks, so as to resist the efforts of even the most powerful animals. That is our door, Fritz cried. Yes, said Jenny, the door into the promised land where all our dear ones live. They only had to remove one of the beams, a task which took but a few minutes, and then, at last, they were through the defile, and all had the feeling that they were entering their own home. Home, which, only three days ago, they had supposed to be hundreds and hundreds of miles away. Fritz and Frank and John Block replaced the beam in its proper grooves, so as to bar the way against wild beasts and pachydans. About half past seven, night was falling with the suddenness peculiar to the tropics when Fritz and his companions reached the Hermitage at Eberford. Nobody was at the farm, and although they regretted this, there was no occasion for them to be surprised. The little villa was in perfect order. They opened all the doors and windows and proceeded to make themselves comfortable for the 10 hours or so they would stay. In accordance with Mishorza Matt's practice, the house was quite ready for the reception of the two families who visited it several times in the course of the year. The bedsteads were given to Jenny and Dolly, Susan and little Bob, and to Captain Gould. Dry grass sprung on the floor of the outhouse would be good enough for the others this last night before their return home. Morever, Eberford was always provided with stores to last a week. So Jenny only had the trouble of opening large wicker hampers to find preserves of various kinds, sega, cassava or tapioca flour and salted meat and fish. As for fruit, figs, mangoes, bananas, pears and apples, they only had to take a step to pick them from the trees and only another to gather vegetables in the kitchen garden. Of course the kitchen and larder were properly equipped with all necessary utensils. Directly a good wood fire was crackling in the stove. The pot was set upon its tripod. Water was drawn from an offshoot of the eastern river which supplied the reservoir belonging to the farm. And it was with special pleasure that Fritz and Frank were able to offer their guests glasses of palm wine drawn from the barrels in the cellar. Aha! cried the boatswain. We've been teetotalers a very long time. Well, we will pledge you now, good old bloke, Fritz exclaimed. As much as you like, the boatswain answered, nothing could be more pleasant than drinking one another's health in this excellent wine. Let us drink then, said Frank, to the happiness of seeing our parents and our friends again at Falconhurst or Rockcastle. And clinking glasses, they gave three cheers for the Zermatt's and the Wollstons. Seriously, John bloke remarked, there are plenty of inns in England and elsewhere which aren't nearly so good as this hermitage of Everford. More ever, bloke, Fritz answered, here the entertainment is free. When supper was finished, all sought the repose of which they had such need after their long day's march. Every one of them slept until the sun rose next morning. End of chapter 11, recording by Sarah Cooke-Lewitts. Chapter 12 of the Castaways of the Flag. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Nancy Cochran-Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona. The Castaways of the Flag by Jules Verne. Chapter 12. Enemies in the Promised Land. At seven o'clock next morning, after breakfasting off the remains of supper and drinking a stirrup cup of palm wine, Fritz and his companions left the hermitage at Everford. They were all in haste and intended to cover the seven and a half miles that lay between the farm and Falconhurst in less than three hours. It is possible that our people may be settled now in their dwelling in the air, Fritz Remar. If so, dear, said Jenny, we shall have a joy of meeting them quite an hour sooner. Provided they have not gone into summer quarters on Prospect Hill, Frank observed. In that case, we should be obliged to go back to Falsal Point. Isn't that the cave from which Monsieur Zermatt must watch for the unicorn? Captain Gould inquired. That is the one, Captain, Fritz replied. And as the corvette must have completed her repairs, it will not be long before she reaches the island. However, that may be, the boatsway remarked. The best thing we can do, in my opinion, is to start. If there is nobody at Falconhurst, we will go to Rock Castle. And if there is nobody at Rock Castle, we will go to Prospect Hill or anywhere else. But let us get on the march. Although there was no lack of kitchen utensils and gardening tools at the hermitage, Fritz had looked in vain for any sporting guns and ammunition. When his father and brothers came to the farm, they brought their guns, but never left them there. However, there was nothing to be afraid of in crossing the Promised Land, since no wild beast could get through the defile of clues. A cart road, and how often already had it been rolled by the wagon which the buffaloes in the Onager drew, ran between the cultivated fields, now in their full vegetation, and the woods in their full virtue. The sight of all this prosperity gladdened the eye. Captain Gould in the boatsway, and James and Susan Walston, who saw this district for the first time, were amazed. Most certainly my colonists come here. It could support hundreds. The island as a whole could thousands. After marching for an hour and a half, Fritz stopped for a few moments, nearly midway between the hermitage of Everford and Falconhurst, before a stream which he did not know existed in this part of the district. That is something new, he said. It certainly is, Jenny answered. I do not remember any stream in this place. It is more like a canal, Captain Gould remarked. You are right, Captain, said Fritz. Mr. Walston must have conceived the idea of drawing water from Jackal River to supply Swan Lake and keep it full during not weather, which would enable them to irrigate the land around Wood Grange. Yes, Franklin on, it must have been your father, Dolly, who had that notion and carried it out. Oh, said Dolly, but I expect your brother, Ernest, had a finger in the pie. No doubt, I learned it Ernest, Fritz agreed. And why not the intrepid Jack and Mr. Zermatt too, Captain Gould inquired. Everybody then, said Jenny, laughing. Yes, every one of both the families, which now are really one, Fritz answered. The boat's wing broke in, as was his way, with a very just remark. If those who cut this canal did well, those who threw a bridge across it deserve quite as much praise. So let us go over and march on. They crossed the bridge and entered into the more thickly wooded district, where rose the little stream that ran out near Falconhurst, just below Whale Island. Fritz and Frank listened intently, trying to catch some distant sound of barking or of guns. What was Jack, the enthusiastic sportsman, about that he was not hunting this fine morning? Game was rising in every direction, scampering away through the breaks and scattering from tree to tree. If the two brothers had had guns, they could have let ply with both barrels over and over again. It seemed to them that fur and feather had never been well plentiful in the district, so plentiful that their companions were genuinely astonished by it. But besides the twittering of little birds, the call of partridges and busters, the chattering of parrots and sometimes the howling of jackals were all that could be heard, and to these sounds was never added the report of firearms or the whimper of a dog on the scent. After crossing the Falconhurst River, they only had to go up the right bank as far as the edge of the wood where grew the gigantic mangrove tree with the aerial dwelling place. A profound silence reigned underneath these immense trees, a silence which awakened vague uneasiness. When Fritz looked at Jenny, he read in her eyes an anxiety for which, however, there was no justification in shed. Frank, too, felt some nervousness walking on in front and then retracing his steps. This uneasiness was shared by all. In 10 minutes they would be at Falconhurst. 10 minutes was not that much the same as being there already? It's a sure thing, said the boatswain, who wanted to cheer them up. It's a sure thing that we shall have to go down this fine avenue of yours to Rock Castle. A delay of an hour, that's all. And what's an hour, after so long an absence? They put on pace. A few moments later they came within side of the edge of the wood and then of the enormous mangrove tree in the middle of the courtyard enclosed by palisades fringed with a quick-set hedge. Pritz and Frank ran to the gate contrived in the hedge. The gate was open and had been torn half off its hinges. The two brothers went into the courtyard and stopped beside the little central basin. The place was deserted. Not a sound came from the poultry run or the sheds built against the palisade, although these were generally full of cows and sheep and poultry during the summer season. In the outhouses were various things, boxes and hampers and agricultural implements, all in a disorder very foreign to the careful habits of Madame Zermatt and Mrs. Walston and her daughter. Frank ran to the cattle sheds. There was nothing in them but a few armfuls of hay in the racks. Did it mean that the animals had broken out of the enclosure? Were they straying loose about the country? No, for not one had been seen anywhere near Falconhurst. It was just possible that, for some reason or other, they had been pinned in the other farms and yet that was hardly an explanation. As has been said, the farmstead of Falconhurst comprised two dwelling places, one built among the branches of the mangrove tree, the other among the roots which were buttressed round its base. Above the ladder was a terrace with a railing of bamboo canes which supported the roof of tarred moss. This terrace covers several rooms divided by partitions fixed among the roots and large enough for both families to inhabit them together. This first dwelling was as silent as the outbuildings in the yard. Let us go inside, said Fritz, with trouble in his voice. All followed him and a cry broke from them and inarticulate cry for not one of them could have uttered a word. The furniture was upset. The chairs and tables had been thrown down. The chests opened, the bedding thrown on the floor, the utensils into the corners. It was as if the rooms have been given over to pillage for the mere sake of pillage. Of the stores of provisions, generally kept fully supplied at Falconhurst, not a scrap remained. There was no hay in the loft. In the cellar the casks of wine and beer and spirits were empty. There were no weapons except one loaded pistol which the boat swing picked up and thrust in his belt. Yet carbines and guns were always left at Falconhurst during the hunting season. Fritz, Frank, and Jenny stood overwhelmed before this most unexpected disaster, where things in the same state at Rock Castle and Wood Grange and Sugar King Grove and Prospect Hill of all the farms had the hermitage of Aberford alone been spared by these pillagers and who were the pillagers? My friends said, Captain Gould, some disasters happen but it may not be as serious as you fear. No one answered. What answer could Fritz or Frank or Jenny have given? Their hearts seemed broken. They had set foot within the Promised Land with so much joy, only to find ruin and desolation. But what had happened? Had New Switzerland been invaded by a band of those pirates who were so numerous at that period in the Indian Ocean? Were the Andamans and Nicobars offered them a safe place of refuge? Had the Zermats and Wolstons been able to leave Rock Castle in time and retire elsewhere? Or even flee from the island? Had they fallen into the hands of the pirates? Or had they lost their lives in an attempt at self-defense? And one last question. Had all this happened a few months ago or a few weeks ago or a few days ago? And would it have been possible to prevent it if the unicorn had arrived within the time arranged? Jenny made a brave effort to keep back her tears while Susan and Dolly sobbed together. Frank wanted to rush to find his father and mother and brothers and Fritz was obliged to hold him back. Captain Gould in the boat swing went out several times to examine the ground near the Palisade but came back without having found anything to throw light on the matter. Some decision, however, had to be arrived at. Was it better to remain at Falconhurst and await events there or to go down to Rock Castle ignoring of how matters stood? Should they make a reconnaissance? Leaving the women and Bob and James's protection while Fritz, Frank and Captain Gould and John Block went to investigate either along the shore or across country? In any case, they had to dispel this uncertainty even though the truth should leave them without hope. Fritz was forcing the general wish when he said, let us try to get to Rock Castle and let us go once, Frank exclaimed. I will come with you, said Captain Gould and so will I, said John Block. Good, Fritz replied, but James must stay with Jenny, Dolly and Susan who will be out of harm's way at the top of Falconhurst. That also I'll go up first, John Block suggested and from there, perhaps we shall see. It was only reasonable to do that before going to Reconnoir outside. From the aerial dwelling place and especially from the top of the mangrove tree, the view extended over much of the promised land and the sea to the east and also over nearly eight miles of coast between Deliverance Bay and Foss Hope Point. Up, up, Fritz answered to the boatswain's suggestion. The habitation among the branches of the tree had escaped the general devastation thanks to the dense foliage of the mangrove which almost concealed it from view. The door giving access to the winding staircase inside the trunk bore no marks of violence. Frank found it shut and wrenched at it so that the lock bolt came away. In a few moments they had all climbed up the staircase, lighted by narrow loopholes in the tree and set foot on the circular balcony which was almost completely screened behind the curtain of leaves. The instant Fritz and Frank reached the platform they hurried into the first room. Neither this room nor the rooms next to it presented the least sign of disturbance. The bedding was all in good condition, the furniture all in place. So it was obvious that the original falcons test had been respected. The marauders could not have found the door below. The foliage had become so very much thicker in the course of these 12 years that it would have been as impossible to see the dwelling from the yard below as it was from the edge of the neighboring wood. It really looked as if Madame Zermatt and Mrs. Walston had said everything in order only the day before. There were preserved meat, flour, rice, preserves and liquor, enough of everything to last for a week in accordance with the usual custom observed at Falconhurst as at the other farms. Nobody now, of course, gave a thought to the question of food. What occupied their minds to the exclusion of all else, filling them with despair was the deserted condition of Falconhurst in the height of the summer and the pillage of the lower dwelling. Directly they returned to the balcony. Fritz and the boat swing climbed right up to the top of the mangrove tree to get as wide of view as possible. To north ran the line of coasts bounded by a false hope point at the little hill where the villa of Prospect Hill stood. Nothing suspicious could be detected in this part of the district. To west, beyond the canal connecting Jekyll River with Swan Lake, spread the country watered by the little Falconhurst River through which Fritz and his companions had walked everday across the bridge. This was as deserted as the country which ran still further to the west as far as a defile of clues. To east, the vast arm of the sea spread out between false hope point and Cape East beyond which lay Unicorn Bay. There was not a sail to be seen at sea, not a boat along the shore. Nothing was visible but the vast plain of water from which to northeast rejected the reef upon which the landlord had struck long ago. Turning towards the south, the eye could only see, about two miles and a half away, the entrance into Deliverance Bay near their wall of rock which sheltered the dwelling of rock castle. Of that house and its annexes, nothing was visible except the green tops of the trees in the kitchen garden and a little more to southwest, a line of light which indicated the course of Jekyll River. Fritz and John Block came down to the balcony again after spending some 10 minutes in the first examination. Making use of the telescope which M. Zermatt always kept at Falconhurst, they had looked carefully in the direction of rock castle and the shore. No one was to be seen there. It seemed that the two families could not be on the island now. But it was possible that M. Zermatt and his people had been led by the Marauders to some farmstead in the Promised Land or even to some other part of New Switzerland. To this suggestion, however, Captain Gould raised an objection which it was difficult to meet. These Marauders, whoever they may be, he said, must have come by sea, must even have landed in Deliverance Bay. Now we have observed none of their boats. The conclusion would seem to be that they have gone away again, perhaps taking, he stopped, no one ventured to make answer. Certainly, rock castle did not seem to be inhabited now. From the top of the tree, no smoke could be seen rising above the fruit trees in the kitchen garden. Captain Gould then suggested that the two families might have left New Switzerland voluntarily since the unicorn had not arrived at the appointed time. How could they have gone? Fritz asked. Who would have been glad to have this hope to cling to? Aboard some ship that came to these waters, Captain Gould replied. One of the ships which must have been sent from England, or perhaps another vessel which arrived off the island in the ordinary chances of navigation. This theory was possible, and yet there were many grave reasons to suppose that the desertion of New Switzerland was not due to any such circumstance. Fritz spoke again. We must not hesitate any longer. Let us go and look. Yes, let us go, said Frank. Fritz was just preparing to go down again when Jenny stopped him. Smoke, she said, I think I can see smoke rising above rock castle. Fritz seized the telescope and turned it towards the south for more than a minute. His eye stayed glued to the instrument. Jenny was right. Smoke was passing across the curtain of green above the rocks which enclose rock castle to the rear. They are there, they are there, cried Frank, and we ought to have been with them already. This assertion nobody denied. They all had such dire need to recover hope that everything was forgotten. The solitude that lay around Hulkenhurst, the pillage of the yard, the absence of the domestic animals, the empty sheds, the ruin of the rooms at the foot of the mangrove tree. But cold reason came back to Captain Gold and John Block, at least. Manifestly, rock castle was occupied at this moment. The smoke proved that, but might it not be occupied by the marauders? At any rate, it would be necessary to approach it with the utmost caution. Perhaps it would be best not to go along the avenue which led to Jack River. If they went across fields and, as much as possible, from wood to wood, they might have a chance of getting to the drawbridge without being sighted. At last, as all were getting ready to leave the aerial dwelling, Jenny lowered the telescope with which she had been scanning the coast of the bay. And the proof that both families are still here, she said, is that the flag is flying over Shark's Island. The white and red flag, the colors of New Switzerland, was indeed waving over the battery. But did that make it absolutely certain that the misuse of Matt and Mr. Walston and their wives and children had not left the island? Did not the flag always float at that spot? They would not argue the point. Everything would be explained at rock castle and before an hour had passed. Let us go, let us go, said Frank again, and he turned towards the staircase. Stop, stop, the boat swing suddenly said, lowering his voice. They watched him crawl along the balcony to the side overlooking Dlibert's Bay. Then he moved the leaves aside, put his hand through them and drew it back precipitantly. What is the matter, Fritz asked? Savages, John Block replied. End of chapter 12, recording by Nancy Cochran-Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona. Chapter 13 of the Castaways of the Flag. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Nancy Cochran-Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona. The Castaways of the Flag by Jules Verne, chapter 13. Shark's Island. It was now half past two in the afternoon. The foliage of the mangrove was so dense that the rays of the sun, though almost vertical, could not penetrate it. Thus Fritz and his companions ran no risk of being detected in the aerial dwelling of Falconhurst, of the existence of which some savages who had landed on the island had no idea. Five men, half naked, with the black skins of natives of Western Australia, armed with bows and arrows, were coming along the path. They had no notion that they had been seen, or even that there were other inhabitants of the promised land besides those of rock castle. But what had become of masseuse or mat and the others? Had they been able to make their escape? Had they fallen in unequal combat? Of course, as John Block remarked, it could not be supposed that the number of Aborigines who had landed on the island was limited to these few men. Had they been so inferior numerically, they could not have got the better of masseuse or mat and his two sons and Mr. Walson, even if they had made a surprise attack. It must have been a large band that had invaded New Switzerland, whether they must have come in a fleet of canoes. The fleet was doubtless lying at the present moment in the creek with the boat and the penis. It could not be seen from the top of Falconhurst because the view in that direction was cut off by the point of Deliverance Bay. And where were those their mats and the Walsons? What inference must be drawn from the fact that they had not been encountered at Falconhurst or their bouts? That they were prisoners of rock castle, that they had neither time nor opportunity to seek refuge in the other farms or that they had been massacred? Everything else was explained now, the havoc brought at Falconhurst and the deserted condition in which the promised land was found between the Swan Lake Canal and the shore. How could they cherish any but the faintest hope? So while Captain Gould and the boat swing kept the natives in view, the other starved together. There was one last chance. Could the two families have taken refuge in the Westburn in some part of the island beyond Pearl Bay? If they had caught sight of the canoes in the distance across Deliverance Bay, might they not have had time to make their escape in the wagon, taking provisions and arms? Captain Gould and John Block continued to watch the approaching savages. Was it their intention to come into the yard? The house had been visited and pillaged by them already. Now they might discover the door at the foot of the staircase. In that event, however, they could easily be disposed of. But when they stepped out onto the platform, they could be surprised one by one and hurled over the balustrade, a drop of 40 or 50 feet. And as the boat swing remarked, if after a tumble like that, they had legs enough left to get back to Rock Castle, the beast would be more like cats than the monkeys they resemble. But when they reached the end of the avenue, the five men stopped. The watchers did not miss a single movement they made. What was their business at Falconhurst? If the aerial dwelling had escaped their observation so far, were they not now on the point of discovering it and the people inside it? And then they would come back in larger numbers. And how was the attack of 100 natives to be withstood? They came to the palisade and walked all around it. Three of them entered the yard and went into one of the outhouses on the left, coming out again presently with fishing tackle. The rascals are a bit too familiar, the boatsway murmured. They don't only not ask your leave. Can they have a canoe on the beach and are they going to fish along the shore? Said Captain Gould. We'll soon find out, Skipper, Chum Block replied. The three men returned to their companions. Then they went down a little path bordered with a stout thorn hedge which ran along the right of the Falconhurst River and passed onto the sea. They were inside until they reached the cutting through which the river flowed to its outlet into Flamingo Bay. But as soon as they turned to the left, they became invisible and would only be seen again if they put out to sea. It was probable there was a boat upon the beach, probable too that they generally used it for fishing your Falconhurst. While Captain Gould and Chum Block remained on the watch, Jenny controlled her grief and asked Fritz, what ought we to do, dear? Fritz looked at his wife, not knowing what to answer. We are going to decide what we ought to do, Captain Gould declared. But to begin with, it is idle to remain on this balcony where we are in danger of being discovered. When they were all together in the room, while Bob, who was tired by his long march, slept in a little closet next to it, Fritz answered his wife's question. No, Jenny, dear, all hope is not lost if on your people. It is possible that they were not taken by surprise. Father and Mr. Walston are sure to have seen the canoes in the distance. They may have had time to take refuge in one of the farms or even in the heart of the woods at Pearl Bay, where these savages would not have ventured. We saw no trace of them when we left the hermitage at Aberford after we crossed the canal. My opinion is that they have not moved away from the coast. That is my opinion too, said Captain Gould. And I believe that Miss Usur Matt and Mr. Walston have got away with their families. Yes, I'm sure of it, said Jenny positively. Dolly, dear, Susan, don't lose heart. Don't cry anymore. We shall see them all again. The young woman spoke so stoutly that she brought back hope to them. Fritz shook her hand. It is God who speaks through your lips, Jenny, dear, he said. On consideration, indeed, as Captain Gould insisted, it was hardly to be supposed that Rob Castle could have been surprised by attacking natives, or they could not have brought their canoes by night to a land which they did not know. It must have been by daylight that they arrived, and some of the islanders must surely have seen them far enough off to have had time to take refuge in some other part of the island. And then again, Fritz added, if these natives landed only recently, our people may not have been at Rob Castle at all. This is the season when we usually visit all the farms. Although we did not meet them at the hermitage at Aberford last night, they may be at Woodgrange or Prospect Hill, or at Sugar King Grove in the midst of those thick woods. Let us go to Sugar King Grove first, Frank suggested. We can do that, John Block ascended, but not before night. Yes, now at once, at once, Frank insisted, declining to listen to argument. I can go alone, about 12 miles there and 12 miles back. I shall be back in four hours and we shall know what we are about. No, Frank, no, said Fritz. I do beg you not to leave us. It would be most foolish. If need be, I order you not to, and I am your elder brother. Would you stop me, Fritz? I would deter you from doing anything so rash. Frank, Frank, said Dali entreatingly. Do please listen to your brother. Frank, I beseech you, but Frank was set on his plan. Very well, said the boatswain, and thought it his duty to interfere. Since the search is to be made, let us make it without waiting until night. But why should we not all go together to Sugar King Grove? Then come along, said Frank. But the boatswain went on, addressing Fritz. Is it really Sugar King Grove that we ought to make for? Where else, Fritz asked. Rock Castle, John Block answered. The name, thus unexpectedly dropped into the discussion, altered the whole course of it. Rock Castle? After all, if Monsieur Zomat and Mr. Walstead and their wives and children had fallen into the hands of the natives, and if their lives had been spared, it was there that they would be, for the smoke proved that Rock Castle was occupied. Go to Rock Castle, A, Captain Gould replied. All right, but go there altogether. Altogether? No, said Fritz. Only two or three of us, and after dark. After dark, Frank began again, more set than ever upon his idea. I am going to Rock Castle now. And how do you expect and brought daylight to escape the savages who are prowling round about it? Fritz replied. And if you do escape them, how will you get into Rock Castle if they are there at the time? I don't know, Fritz, but I shall find out if our people are there, and when I have found out, I will come back. My dear Frank, Captain Gould said, I quite understand your impatience, and I sympathize with it, but do give way to us in this matter. It is only common prudence that makes us think as we do. If the savages get you, the hunt will be up. They will come back to look for us, and there will be any more safety for us, either at Woodgrage or anywhere else. At last they succeeded in making Frank listen to reason. He had to bow to the authority of one who already, perhaps, was ahead of the family. So it was decided that they should wait, and that as soon as darkness permitted, Frank and the boat's wage should leave Falconhurst. It was better that two should make this reconnaissance, fraught with many dangers. They would glide along the quick-set hedge that bordered the avenue, and both would try to get to Jackal River. If the drawbridge were withdrawn to the other bank, they would swim across the river and attempt to get into the courtyard of Robb Castle through the orchard. It would be easy to see through one of the windows if the families were shut up inside. If they were not, Frank and John Block would come back at once to Falconhurst, and they would all try to get to Sugar King Grove before daylight. Never did the hours drive by more slowly. Never had Captain Gould and his companions been more profoundly dejected. Not even when the boat was cast to drift upon an unknown sea, not even when it was smashed upon the rocks in Turtle Bay, not even when the shipwreck company with three women and a child amongst them saw themselves threatened by winter on a desert coast, shut in a prison when they could not escape. In the midst of all those trials they had, at least, been free from anxiety on account of those in New Switzerland, whereas now they had found the island in the power of a horde of natives and did not know what to become of their relatives and friends, but had good ground for fearing that they might all have perished in a massacre. Slowly the day wore on. Every now and then one or other of them, generally Fritz and the boatswain, climbed up among the branches of the mangrove in order to search the country and the sea. What they were most anxious to ascertain was whether the savages were still in the neighborhood of Falconhurst or had gone back to Rock Castle, but they could see nothing except, towards the south, near the mouth of Jackal River, the low column of smoke rising above the rocks. Up to four o'clock in the afternoon nothing happened to change the situation. A meal was prepared from the stores in the house. When Frank and John Block came back, they might all have to set out for sugar cane grove, and that would be a long march. Suddenly a report was heard. What is that, Jenny exclaimed, and Fritz drew her back as she was hastening to one of the windows. Could it have been a gun, Frank asked? It was a gun, the boatswain exclaimed. But who fired it, Fritz said. A ship off the island, do you think? James suggested. The unicorn perhaps, Jenny cried. Then she must be very near the island, John Block remarked, for that report was close at hand. Come to the balcony, come to the balcony, Frank cried excitedly. Let us be careful not to be seen, for the savages must be on the alert, Captain Gold cautioned them. All eyes were turned towards the sea. No ship was to be seen, although judging from the nearness of the report, it must have been off Whale Island. All that the boatswain could see was a single canoe, man by two men, which was trying to get in from the open sea to the beach at Falconhurst. Can they be Ernest and Jack, Jenny whispered? No, Fritz answered. Those two men are natives, and the canoe is a perone. But why are they running away like that, Frank asked. Can there be someone after them? Fritz uttered a cry, a cry of joy and surprise combined. He had just seen a bright flash in the middle of a white smoke, and almost simultaneously there was a second report which made the echoes ring round the coast. At the same time, a ball, skimming the surface of the bay, threw up a great jet of water, a couple of fathoms away from the canoe, which continued to fly at full speed towards Falconhurst. There, there, shouted Fritz. Father and Mr. Walston, and all of them were there on Sharks Island. It was indeed from that island that the first report had come, as well as the second with the ball ended up grown. No doubt the others had found refuge under the protection of the battery, which the savages had not ventured to approach. Above it was a red and white flag of New Switzerland, while on the topmost peak in all the island floated the British flag. Impossible to depict the joy, the delirium to which those so lately in despair now abandoned themselves, and their emotions were shared by those true comrades, Captain Gould and the boatswain. There was no further idea of going to Rock Castle. They would leave Falconhurst only to go. How? They did not know, to Sharks Island. If only it had been possible to communicate with it by signals from the top of the mangrove, to wave a flag to which the flag on the battery might reply. But that might have been unwise, unwise too, to fire a few shots with a pistol. For, though these might be heard by Monsieur Zermatt, they might also be heard by the savages if they were still prowling about Falconhurst. It was most important that they should not know of the presence of Captain Gould in this party, for these could not have withstood a combined attack by all the savages now in possession of Rock Castle. Our position is a good one now, Fritz remarked. Don't let us do anything to compromise it. Quite so, Captain Gould replied. Since we have not been discovered, don't let us run any risk of it. Let us wait until night before we do anything. How will it be possible to get to Sharks Island? Jenny asked. By swimming, Fritz declared. Yes, I can swim there all right. And since Father must have fled there in the longboat, I will bring back the longboat to take you all over. Fritz, dear, Jenny could not refrain from protesting. Swim across that arm of the sea. Mere sport for me, dear wife, mere sport, the introvert felt more answered. Perhaps the niggers' canoe is still upon the beach, John Block suggested. Evening drew on, and a little after seven o'clock it was dark, for night follows day with hardly any interval of twilight in these latitudes. About eight o'clock the time had come and it was a range that Fritz and Frank in the boat swing should go down into the yard. They were dissatisfied themselves that the natives were not hanging about anywhere near, and then were to venture down to the shore. In any case, Captain Gould, James Walson, Jenny, Dolly and Susan were to wait at the foot of the tree for a signal to join them. So the three crept down the staircase. They had not dared to light a lantern lest its light should betray them. There was no one in the house below, nor in the outhouses. What had to be found out now was whether the men who had come during the day had gone back to Rock Castle or if they were on the beach for which the canoe had made. Caution was still necessary. Fritz and John Block decided to go down to the shore by themselves, while Frank remained on guard near the entrance to the yard, ready to run in if in a danger-threaded falconhurst. The two men went out of the palisade and crossed the clearing. Then they slid from tree to tree for a couple of hundred yards, listening and peering until they reached the narrow cutting between the last rocks against which the waves broke. The beach was deserted, and so was the sea as far as the Cape, the outlines of which could just be seen in the eastward. There were no lights either in the direction of Rock Castle or on the surface of Deliverance Bay. A single mass of rock loomed up a couple of miles out at sea. It was Shark's Island. Come on, said Fritz. Aye-aye, John Block replied. They went down to the sandy shore once the tide was receding. They would have shouted for joy if they had dared. A canoe was there, lying on its side. It was the paroch, which the battery had greeted with a couple of shots from its guns. A lucky thing that they missed it, John Block explained. If they hadn't, it would be at the bottom now. If it was Mr. Jack or Mr. Ernest, who was such a bad shot, we will offer him our congratulations. This little boat of native construction and work by paddles could only hold five or six people. Captain Gould did his parting number to eight and a child to be rode to Shark's Island. True, the distance was only a bear two miles. Well, we will pack in somehow, John Block said. We mustn't have to make two trips. Besides, Fritz added, in another hour the flood tide will make itself felt and as it sets towards Deliverance Bay, not very far from Shark's Island, it will not be a very big job for us to get there. Everything is for the best, the boats went and replied, and that is beginning to become evident. There was no question of pushing the boat down to the sea. It would take the water of its own accord, directly the flood tide overtook it. John Block satisfied himself that it was firmly moored and was in no danger of drifting out to sea. Then both went up the beach again into the avenue and rejoined Frank, who was waiting for them in the courtyard. Informed of what they had found, he was overjoyed. Fritz left him with the boat swing to keep watch over the entrances to the yard. The news he brought made joy upstairs. About half past nine, I went down to the foot of the mango tree. Frank and John Block had seen nothing suspicious. Silence rained round Falconhurst. The slightest sound could have been heard, for there was not a breath of air. With Fritz and Frank and Captain Gould in front, they crossed the courtyard and the clearing and finding under cover of the trees in the avenue they reached the beach. It was as deserted as it had been two hours before. The flood tide had already lifted the boat, which was floating at the end of its rope. Nothing now remained but to get into it, unmoor it and push off into the current. Jenny, Dolly, Susan and the child immediately took their places in the stern. The others crouched between the seeds and Fritz and Frank took the paddles. It was just 10 o'clock and as there was no moon, they hoped they might get across unseen. In spite of the great darkness, they would have no difficulty in making straight for the island. The moment the parogue was caught by the current, it was carried towards it. All kept silence. Not a word was exchanged, even under breath. Every heart was gripped by excitement. The flood tide could not be relied upon to take them straight to Shark's Island. About a mile from the shore, it bore away towards the mouth of Jackal River to run up Deliverance Bay. So Fritz and Frank paddled vigorously towards the dark mass of rock, where no sound or light could be detected. But someone would certainly be on guard within the battery. Was there not a danger of the canoe being seen and shot at under the misapprehension that the savages were making an attempt to get possession of the island under cover of the night? Actually, the boat was not more than five or six cables length away when a light flashed out at the spot where the gun stood under their shed. Was it the flash from a gun? Was the air about to be rent by an explosion? And then, carrying no longer whether the savages heard him or not, the boatswain stood up and shouted in stentory and tones, don't shoot, don't shoot. Friends, we are friends, shouted Captain Gould. And Fritz and Frank together called again and yet again. It's we, it's we, it's we. The instant they touched the rocks, they fell into the arms of their friends. End of chapter 13, recording by Nancy Cochran-Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona. Chapter 14 of The Castaways of the Flag. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Nancy Cochran-Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona. The Castaways of the Flag by Jules Verne, chapter 14. A perilous plight. A few minutes later, the two families, complete this time, with Captain Harry Gould and the boatswain, were together in the storehouse in the middle of the island, 500 paces from the battery knoll over which the flag of New Switzerland floated. Fritz, Frank, and Jenny were clasped to the hearts of Monsieur and Madame Sir Matt and covered with kisses. James, Dolly, Susan, and Bob were unable to extricate themselves from the embraces of Mr. and Mrs. Wolston and much hands shaking was exchanged with Captain Gould and the boatswain. Then they had to exchange stories up to 15 months which had passed since the day when the unicorn disappeared behind the heights of false hope point. Bearing away Jenny Montrose, Fritz, Frank, and Dolly. But before recalling all these past events, it was necessary to talk of the present. For although they were reunited now, the two families were nonetheless in a serious and perilous position. The savages must ultimately become masters of this island when the ammunition and provisions were exhausted unless help came. And whence could Monsieur Sir Matt and his people expect help? First of all, Fritz told briefly the story of the flag's castaways. And where are the savages? Fritz asked as he came to the end of telling how they had seen the savages. At rock castle, Monsieur Sir Matt replied. Many of them, 100 at least, they came in 15 pierogies probably from the Australian coast. Thank God you were able to escape from them, Jenny exclaimed. Yes, indeed, dear child, Monsieur Sir Matt replied. As soon as we saw the canoes making for deliverance bay, we took refuge on Sharks Island, thinking that we might be able to defend ourselves here against an attack by them. Hotbots said, Frank, the savages know now that you are on this island. Yes, they do, Monsieur Sir Matt answered. But thank God they have not succeeded in landing her yet and our old flag is still flying. The following is a very brief summary of what had happened since the time at which the first part of this narrative ended. On the return of the dry season, after the expeditions which resulted in the discovery of the Montrose River, a reconnaissance was carried out as far as the range of mountains where Mr. Walston, Ernest, and Jack planted the British flag on the summit of Jean Sir Matt Peak. That happened some 10 or 12 days before the boat arrived on the southern coast of the island and if the expedition had been carried beyond the range, they might have met Captain Gould at Turtle Bay. But Mr. Walston and the two brothers had not ventured across the desert plateau. The newcomers were told how Jack, carried away by his wild desire to capture a young elephant, had fallen into the midst of savages who made him prisoner. After escaping from him, he had brought back the grave news of their presence on the island. Thoroughly alarmed, the Sir Matts and Walston's made plans in anticipation of an attack upon Rock Castle and maintained a watch day and night. For three months, however, nothing happened. The savages did not appear. It seemed that they had finally left the island. But there was matter of new anxiety in the fact that the unicorn, due to arrive in September or October, made new appearance off New Switzerland. In vain did Jack go many times to the top of Prospect Hill to look out for the return of the Corvette. On each occasion, he had come back to Rock Castle without having seen her. It should be mentioned here that the ship observed by Mr. Walston, Ernest and Jack, from the summit of Gene Sir Matt Peak was no other than the flag, as could be proved by comparison of dates. Yes, it was the three master which had fallen into the hands of Robert Barrett. After approaching the island, she had sailed to the Pacific Ocean, through the sun to seas, never to be heard of again. The last weeks of the year brought them to despair. After the lapse of 15 months, all a bed in hope of ever seeing the unicorn again. Madame Sir Matt, Mrs. Walston and Hannah mourned their lost ones. None had courage left for anything. Nothing seemed of any use. It was only after this long delay that they took it for granted that the unicorn had been wrecked, lost with all hands, and that nothing more would ever be heard of her, either in England or in the Promised Land. For if the Corvette had accomplished her outward voyage without mishap, after a call at the Cape of Good Hope lasting a few days, she would have reached Portsmouth, her destination within three months. From there, a few months later, she would have sailed for New Switzerland and several immigrant ships would have been dispatched soon after her to the English Colony. The fact that no ship had visited this portion of the Indian Ocean meant that the unicorn had foundered in the dangerous seas that lie between Australia and Africa before she had reached her first port of call, Cape Town. It meant, too, that the existence of the island was still unknown and would remain unknown unless the chances of navigation brought some other ship into these remote seas which, at this period, lay within none of the maritime routes. During the first half of the dry season, neither Mr. Usur Matt nor Mr. Walston thought of leaving Rock Castle. As a rule, they spent the finest part of the year at Falconhurst, reserving a week each for the forms that would grange, sugar can grow, prospect hill, and the hermitage at Aberford. On this occasion, they limited themselves to the brief visits desecitated by their duty to the animals. They made no attempt to explore the other portions of the island outside the district of the Promised Land. Jack contented himself with hunting in the immediate neighborhood of Rock Castle, leaving whirlwind and storm and grumbler idle. Various works, which Mr. Walston had planned to do, to which his engineering instinct had moved him, were left unattempted. What was they use? In those four little words was summed up a volume of despondency. So when they came to celebrate the festival of Christmas, kept with joy so many years, tears were in the eyes of all, and prayers rose for those who were not with them. Thus the year 1817 opened. In that splendid summer season, nature was more lavish with her gifts than she had ever been before, but her generosity far exceeded the requirements of seven persons. The great house seemed empty, now that those they had expected could be looked for no longer. And yet there came a time St. Holmes that everything was not lost irrequivably. Could the delay of the unicorn be explained in no other way than by shipwreck with loss of all hands? Perhaps she prolonged her stay in Europe. Perhaps quite soon they would see her top sails on the horizon and the long pennant streaming from her main nest. It was in the second week of January of this most gloomy year that Mr. Matt saw flotilla of Barogies round Cape East and making for Deliverance Bay. Their appearance caused no great surprise for after Jack had fallen into their hands, the savages could no longer be unaware that the island was inhabited. In less than two hours, the tide would bring the Barogies to the mouth of Jackal River, manned by something like a hundred men, for of course the whole party that had landed on the island must have joined in this expedition. How would it be possible to offer them serious resistance? Would it be well to take refuge at Falconhurst, Woodgrainge, Prospect Hill, Sugar King Grove, or even at the Hermitage at Everford? Would they be any safer there? As soon as they had set foot on this rich domain of the Promised Land, the invaders would be sure to go all over it. Are they to seek a more secret shelter in the unknown regions of the island? And would there be any certainty that they would not be discovered even there? Then Mr. Walston suggested that they should abandon Rock Castle in favor of Sharks Island. If they put off in the longboat behind the point of Deliverance Bay and went along the Falconhurst shore, they might perhaps be able to get to the island before the Barogies arrived. There, at any rate, under the protection of the two cannon in the battery, they might defend themselves if the natives attempted to set foot on the island. Besides, if there were not time to take over the stores and provisions needed for a long stay, the storehouse had beds and could accommodate the two families. The boat could be laden with articles of prime necessity. And further, as has been laden before, Sharks Island had been planted with mangroves, palms, and other trees and was used as a park for herds and slopes, while the limpid stream assured an abundant supply of water, even during the very hottest season. There would thus be nothing to fear on the score of food for several months. Whether or not the two four-pounder caranades would be sufficient to repulse the flotilla if it made an attack in full force upon Sharks Island, nobody could say. The natives, of course, could have no knowledge of the power of these arms, whose reports would spread panic among them, not to mention the bullets and balls which the two guns and the carbines would grade upon them. But if even half of them succeeded in landing on the island, there would be little hope. There was not a moment to lose. Jack and Ernest brought round the boat to the mouth of Jackal River. Boxes of preserves, cassava, rice, and flour, and also arms and ammunition were taken down to it. Then, Monsieur and Madame Sir Matt, Mr. and Mrs. Walston, Ernest, and Hannah got into it while Jack took his seed in his canoe, which would enable him, if need arose, to establish communication between the island and the shore. The animals, except the two dogs, had to be left at rock castle. The Jackal, Ostrich, and the Onagir were set at liberty. They would be able to find their own food. The boat left the mouth of the river just as the grogies came into sight off Whale Island. But it read no risk of being seen in this portion of sea, lying between rock castle and sharks island. Mr. Walston and Ernest rode, while Monsieur Sir Matt steered in such a way as to profit by starting backwaters, which enabled them to make headway against the rising tide without excessive exertion. Nevertheless, for a mile, they had to struggle hard not to be carried back toward Deliverance Bay, and it was three quarters of an hour before the boat slipped in among the rocks and anchored at the foot of the battery knoll. They at once unloaded the chests, arms, and various articles brought from outcastle, which they deposited in the storehouse. Mr. Walston and Jack went to the battery and took up their posts there to keep watch over the approaches to the island. The flag flying from the signal mast was immediately pulled down. Nevertheless, it was to be feared that the savages had seen it since their canoes were not more than a mile away. Thus they had to remain on the defensive in anticipation of an immediate attack. The attack did not take place. When the grogies were off the island, they turned southwards and the current took them in towards the mouth of Jackal River. After the savages had landed, the canoes were taken into shelter in the low creed with a penance lay at her moorings. This was the position of affairs. For a fortnight, the savages had been in possession of rockcastle, and it did not appear that they had sacked the house. It was different at Falconhurst, and from the top of the knoll, Mr. Matt had seen them chasing the animals after they had wrought havoc in the rooms and storehouses. But there was soon no doubt that the band had discovered that Charms Island was serving as a refuge for the inhabitants of the island. On several occasions, half a dozen of the canoes came across Deliverance Bay and made towards the island. Several shots sent among them by Ernest and Jack sank one or two and put the others to flight. But from that moment it was necessary to watch day and night. A night attack would be very difficult to repulse. Mr. Matt hoisted the flag at the top of the hill again. For the improbable might happen, and a ship might come within sight of New Switzerland. End of chapter 14, recording by Nancy Cochran-Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona. Chapter 15 of the Castaways of the Flag. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Nancy Cochran-Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona. The Castaways of the Flag by Jules Verne, Chapter 15, Fighting for Life. The last hours of this night of the 24th of January were spent in conversation. The two families had so much to say, so many memories to recall, so many fears for the future to discuss. No one thought of going to sleep except Little Bob. But until Daybreak, Mr. Yozer Matt, and his companions did not relax their keen vigilance, relieving one another on duty near the two cannonades, one loaded with ball, the other with great shot. Shark's Island was larger than Whale Island, which laid two and a half miles away to the north, to the entrance to Flamingo Bay. It was an oval about half a mile long and a quarter of a mile across at its widest part, thus having a circumference of something under two miles. By day, it had been comparatively easy to keep watch over it. And as it was of the utmost importance that equally effective watch should be maintained from sunset to sunrise, it was decided, on Captain Gould's suggestion, that the whole of the shore should be patrolled. Dawn came and no alarm had been raised. Although the savages knew that the island was held by a little garrison, they had no idea that it had been reinforced and was in a position to offer them sterner resistance. But it would not be long before they discovered that one of their canoes had disappeared, that which had taken Captain Gould and his party from Falconhurst Beach to Shark's Island. They may think, Fritz suggested, that the canoe has been carried away by the outgoing tide. Anyhow, Mr. Zermatt replied, let us keep a careful look out. As long as the island is not invaded, we have nothing to fear. Although there are 15 of us, we have plenty of food for a long time with the reserves in the storehouse, not to mention the herd of antelopes. The spring is inexhaustible and of ammunition we have enough, provided we are not attacked very often. What the deuce, John Block explained, these tailless apes surely won't stay forever on the island. Who can tell, Moms, or Matt answered, if they have settled down in Rock Castle, they will never leave it. Oh, our poor dear house, prepare to receive all of you, my children, and now in their power? Mother said, Jeannie, I do not think they have destroyed anything at Rock Castle, for they have no interest in doing so. We shall find our home in good condition and we shall resume our life together there, and with the help of God. Yes, of God, Frank added, who will not forsake us after having brought us all together again, as by a miracle. Ah, if only I could work a miracle, Jack explained. What would you do, Mr. Jack, the votes were inquired. To begin with, the young man replied, I would John and Wellmake these rascals de-camp before they tried to land on the island, many of them as there are. And then, Harry Gould asked, then, Captain, if they continue to infest our island with their presence, I would make either the unicorn or another ship show its colors at the entrance to Deliverance Bay. But that would not be a miracle, Jack here, Jeannie said. That is an event which will surely come to pass. One of these days, we shall hear the gun saluting the new English colony. Why, it is surprising that no ship has come already, Mr. Walston agreed. Patience, John blocked the way. Everything comes in its own good time. God granted, sighed Madam Sir Mac, whose confidence was shaken by her many trials. And so, after having organized their life in New Switzerland, here were the two families brought down to making another start on a tiny island, a mere annex to their island. How long would they be prisoners on it, and might they not fall into hostile hands if help did not reach them from outside? They proceeded to settle down for a stay perhaps of weeks, possibly even months. As the storehouse was large enough to accommodate 15 people, Madam Sir Mac and Mrs. Walston, Jeannie, Susan, and her child, Hannah and Dolly were to sleep in the beds in the inner room while the men occupied the outer one. Now, at the height of summer, the nights were warm following the hot days. A few armfuls of grass dried in the sun were all that the men required, especially as they had to keep guard in turns from evening until morning upon the approaches to the island. There was no occasion for anxiety with regard to the food supply. Of rice, tapioca, flour, smoked meat, and dried fish, such as salmon and herrings, the stores would suffice for the daily requirements of six months without taking into account the fresh fish that could be caught at the foot of the rocks. The mangroves and palms on the island bore fruit in any quantity. There were two kegs of brandy to make an addition to the fresh and limpid water of the spring. The only thing which might run short and that possibility was serious was ammunition, although they had brought some more over in the boat. If, as a consequence of repeated attacks, powder, bullets, and cannonballs ran out, defense would cease to be possible. While Miss Hughes were mad and earnest helped the women make everything as comfortable as possible, Mr. Wolston and Captain Gull, the boatsway and Fritz and Jack and Frank, surveyed Shark's Island on foot. Almost all around the coast, it was easily accessible on little beaches lying between the projecting points of the coastline. The best protected part was that commanded by the Battery Knoll, which rose at the southwest extremity, overlooking Deliverance Bay. At its foot there were enormous rocks, among which it would be very difficult to affect the landing. Everywhere else, light boats, such as these pierogies were, could find quite enough water to enable them to reach land. Consequently, it was indispensable that they should keep all the approaches to the islands under careful supervision. In the course of their inspection, Fritz and Frank had opportunity to observe the fine condition of the plantations. The mangroves, palms, and pines were in full fruit. Thip grass carpeted the pastures where the herds of animals capered and played. Many birds, flooding from tree to tree, filled the air with their myriad cries. Magnificent firmament poured light and warmth upon the surrounding sea. The day after that, on which the two families had taken refuge on the island, a bird arrived to receive the warmest of welcomes. It was the albatross of burning rock, which Jenny had found again at Turtle Bay, and which had flown away from the top of Jean Sir Matt Peak in the direction of the promised land. When it arrived, the piece of thread that was still fastened around one of its legs attracted Jack's attention, and he caught the bird without any trouble. But unfortunately, on this occasion, the albatross brought no tidings. The man went up to the battery. From the top of the knoll, an uninterrupted view could be obtained north as far as Fossville Point, east as far as Cape East, and south as far as the end of Deliverance Bay. To west, about two miles away, ran the long line of trees which bordered the shore between Jackal River and the Falcon Earth's woods. But they could not see what that the natives were roaming about the promised land. Just at this moment, at the mouth of Deliverance Bay, a few canoes came paddling out to sea, keeping well beyond range of the guns in the battery. By this time, the savages had learned the danger of coming to near Sharks Island, and if they should attempt to land upon it, they would most certainly wait for a very dark night. Looking out to the open main in the northward, one saw nothing but deserted, boundless space, and it was from that quarter that the unicorn, or any other ship dispatched from England, must appear. After having satisfied themselves that the battery was in order, the men were just preparing to come down when Captain Gould asked, is there not a powder magazine at Rock Castle? Yes, Jack answered, and I wished a goodness that were here instead of there. The three barrels that the unicorn left us are in it. Where are they? In a little cavity at the end of the orchard. The boats winged guests, the captains thought. Probably, he said, those rascals may have discovered that magazine. It is to be feared they may, Mr. Wollstone answered. What is most to be feared, Captain Gould declared, is that in their ignorance they may blow up the house. And themselves with it, Jack exclaimed. Well, if Rock Castle had to go to blazes in the explosion, it would be one solution. Or imagine that those left of the filthy creatures would de-camp without any heart to come back. Leaving the boats wing on the sentry go at the battery, the others went back to the storehouse. Breakfast was eaten together. How happy a meal it would have been if all the party had been gathered in the big hall at Rock Castle. The next four days brought no change in the situation. Beyond keeping proper watch over the island, they did not know how to fill the long hours. How different everything would have been if the unicorn had not been compelled to put into Cape Town for repairs. They would all have been settled down at Rock Castle more than two months ago. And now that Fritz and Jenny were married, who could say that another wedding would not be celebrated soon? The Union of Ernst and Hannah, which the Corvettes Chaplain might have blessed in the Chapel of Rock Castle, there might have been whispers of the Third Union by and by, when Dolly should be 18. Everyone fought bravely against despondency. As for John Plough, he lost none of his native good humor. They took long walks among the plantations. They watched Deliverance Bay, although no attack by the pierogies was to be apprehended while the sun was in the sky. Then with night, all their anxiety returned, anticipating an attack in force. So while the women retired within the second room of the storehouse, the men made the rounds of the shore, ready to concentrate at the foot of the knoll if the enemy approached the island. On the 29th of January, during the morning, there was still nothing unusual to be noted. The sun rose and a horizon undimmed by the faintest haze. The day would be very hot and the light sea breeze could hardly last until the evening. After the midday meal, Captain Gould and Jack left the store and went to relieve Ernst and Mr. Wollstone, who were on sentry go with the battery. Those two were just coming away when Captain Gould stopped them. There are several canoes at the mouth of Jackal River, he said. They are probably going fishing, as usual, Jack replied. They will take care to go by out of range of our guns. Jack was scanning the place through the telescope. Ah, he explained. There are a lot of canoes this time. Wait, five, six, nine, and two more coming out of the creek. 11, 12, can the whole fleet be going fishing? Perhaps they are getting ready to attack us, Mr. Wollstone said. We will be on our guards, said Captain Gould. Let us go and warn the others. Let us see first which way the canoes are going, Mr. Wollstone replied. Anyhow, all our guns are ready, Jack added. During the few hours that Jack had spent in the hands of the savages, he had observed that their pierogies were in number 15. Each able to carry seven or eight men. 12 of these canoes could now be counted rounding the point of the creek. With the help of the telescope, they were able to calculate that the whole band of savages had gone bored and that there could not be a single aborigine remaining at Brock Castle. Can they be clearing out at last, Jack explained? It isn't very likely, Ernest answered, more likely that they need to pay a visit to Shark Simon. When does he begin, Captain Gould inquired? At half past one, Mr. Wollstone told him. Then it will soon make itself felt and as it will be in the favor of the canoes, we shall then know what to expect. Ernest went to inform Mr. Zermatt, his brothers in the boatswing and all came and took up their posts under the hanger of the battery. It was a little after one o'clock and with the ab only just beginning to run, the pierogies moved but slowly along the east coast. They kept as far away from the island as possible in order to escape the projectiles whose range and power they now knew very well. Yet, suppose that we're a final departure, said Frank again. Then good luck to them and goodbye, said Jack. And here's hoping we shall never see them back, John Block added. As yet, no one would venture to prophesy such a happy contingency. Were not the canoes only waiting for the up to run strongly in order to make for the island? Brits and jennies do side by side, watching in silence, hardly daring to believe that the situation was drawing to so immediate an end. It soon became apparent that the canoes were feeling the action of the outgoing tide. Their speed increased, although they did not cease to hug the coast, as if it were the native's intention to go around Cape East. At half past three, the fleet was midway between Deliverance Bay and Cape East. At six o'clock, there could be no further doubt on the matter. The last boat rounded the cave and disappeared behind the point. Neither Mr. Zermatt nor anyone else had left the knoll for a moment. What relief was theirs when not a single pierogi remained in sight. At last, the island was free from the savages' presence. The whole party would be able to settle down in Rock Castle again. Perhaps there would be only trifling damage to make good. They would do nothing but watch for the arrival of the unicorn. Their last fears were forgotten, and, after all, they were all together again after surviving so many dreadful trials. Shall we start for Rock Castle? Jack exclaimed, eager to quit the island. Yes, yes, said Dolly no less eagerly. Frank had just joined her. Would it not be better to wait until tomorrow? Jenny suggested. What do you think, Fritz Deer? What Mr. Walston and Captain Gould and Papa think, Fritz replied. And that certainly is to spend this next night here. Yes, said Mr. Zermatt. Before we return to Rock Castle, we must be absolutely sure that the savages have no intention of going back there. They have gone to the devil already, Jack exclaimed. And the devil never lets go of anything, yes, once got in his claws. Isn't that so, old bloke? Yes, sometimes, the boats went answered. Despite Jack's protests and arguments, it was decided to postpone the start until tomorrow and all assembled at the last meal which they expected to take on Sharp's Island. It was a very merry one. And when the evening came to an end, all were ready for bed. Everything suggested that this night of the 29th of January would be as tranquil as the many others spent in the quietude of Rock Castle and Falconhurst. Nevertheless, neither Mr. Zermatt nor his companions would depart from their customary caution, although all danger seemed to have gone with the last of the canoes. It was therefore arranged that some should make the usual nightly rounds while the others remained on guard at the battery. As soon as the woman and Bob had gone into the store, Jack, Ernest, Frank, and John Block, with their guns over their shoulders, set out to the north end of the island. Fritz and Captain Gould went up the knoll and took their place under the hangar as it was their turn to go on guard until sunrise. Mr. Walston, Mr. Zermatt, and James stayed in the store where they were free to sleep until dawn. The night was a dark one with no moon. The atmosphere was thick with the evaporations from the heated earth. The breeze had fallen in evening. Profound silence rained. Nothing was audible saved the surf of the incoming tide, which began to flow about eight o'clock. Harry Gould and Fritz sat side by side, recalling memories of all the events, good and ill, that had followed each other after the flag had cast them adrift. From time to time, one or other of them went out and looked carefully about, more especially in the direction of the dark arm of the sea lying between the two capes. Nothing disturbed their utter solitude and toll. At two o'clock in the morning, the Captain and Fritz were startled out of their conversation by a report. A gun, said Harry Gould. Yes, fired over there, Fritz answered, pointing to the northwest of the island. What's up, then, Captain Gould exclaimed. Both rushed out of the hangar and peered for any light in the midst of the profound darkness. Two other reports rang out, near this time in the first one. The canoes have come back, said Fritz. And leaving Harry Gould at the battery, he ran to the store at top speed. Monsieur Zermatt and Mr. Walston had heard the reports and were already on the threshold. What is the matter, Monsieur Zermatt asked sharply? I am afraid, Papa, that the savages have tried to affect the landing, Fritz answered. And the rascals have succeeded, exclaimed Jack, who now approached with Ernest in the boat swing. They are on the island, said Mr. Walston. Their canoes touched the northeast point. Just at the very moment we got there, said Ernest. And our shots were not enough to fright them off. And now nothing remains but to defend ourselves, Captain Gould finished for them. The ladies had just left their room. In anticipation of an immediate attack, they had to carry all the arms, ammunition, and stores they could and get to the battery as quickly as possible. The departure of the pierogies had been nearly a ruse. Taking advantage of the incoming tide, the savages had returned towards Sharks Island, which they hoped to take by surprise. The maneuver had been highly successful. Although their presence was known and they had been welcomed with guns, they were in occupation of the point, once it would be easy for them to get to the central store. The situation was thus desperate, for the pierogies had succeeded in landing the entire band. Monsieur Zermatt and his companions could not offer serious resistance to so large a number of assailants that they must succumb when their ammunition supplies are now was only too certain. They could do nothing but take refuge on the knoll within the battery. That was the only place where there was any possibility of putting up a defense. The women and Bob crept under cover in the hangar which sheltered the two guns. They did not let a murmur escape them. For one moment, Monsieur Zermatt thought of carrying them over to the Falconhurst shore in the boat. But what would become of the unfortunate women if after the island had been invaded, their companions were unable to join them. Besides, they would never have consented to go. It was a little after four o'clock when a confused noise announced the presence of the savages, a couple of hundred yards away. Captain Gould, Monsieur Zermatt, Mr. Walston, Ernest, Frank, James, and the boatswain armed with carbines were ready to fire while Fritz and Jack stood with matches lighted near the two little cannon only waiting for the moment to rake the slopes of the knoll with grape shot. When the black shadow showed against the early light of dawn, Captain Gould gave the order in a low tone to fire in that direction. Seven or eight reports rang out, followed by horrible cries which proved that more than one bullet had found its billet in the crowd. Three attacks had to be repelled before sunrise. In the last, a score so of natives succeeded in reaching the crest of the knoll. Although some of them had been mortally hit, the carbines could no longer keep them in check and but for a double discharge of the ordinance, the battery would probably have been carried in this assault. At daylight, the bandwidth drew among the trees near the store as if they meant to wait until the next night to renew the attack. Unfortunately, the defenders had almost exhausted their cartridges. When they were reduced to the two guns which could only be directed towards the base of the knoll, how could they cover the summit? A council was held to consider the situation. If they could not carry on the resistance under these conditions, would it not be possible to leave Sharks Island, land on Falconhurst Beach, and seek refuge within the promised land or in some other part of the island, all of them together this time? Or would it be better to make a rush on the savages and, with the advantage of carbines over bows and arrows, compel them to take to the sea again? But Monsieur Zermatt and his family were only nine against the scores who surrounded the knoll. Just at this moment, as if in answer to this last suggestion, the air was filled with the whistling of arrows, some of which stuck in the roof of the hangar, fortunately without wounding anyone. The attack is beginning again, said John Block. Let's get ready for them, Fritz replied. This assault was the fiercest of all for the natives were furious and seemed no longer afraid to face the bullets in Grape Shot. Moreover, the ammunition was almost exhausted and the fire slackened. Several of the savages crawled up the knoll and got to the hangar. The two cannonades fired point-blanket them, cleared the ground of a few, and Fritz, Jack, Frank, James, and John Block fought hand-to-hand with the others. Then they retired over the corpses which drew the foot of the hill. They had used a weapon between ax and club, which, in their hands, was a formidable thing. Plainly the struggle approached its end. The last cartridges were spent. Numbers must tell. Monsieur Zermatt and his party were trying to make a stand around the hangar, which must soon be entered. At grips with several natives, Fritz and Frank and Jack and Harry Gould were in imminent peril of being worn down to the foot of the hill. The fight would be over in a few minutes now and defeat Limp Massacre, for they could expect no mercy from these savage foes. Just at this moment a report rang out off the island born by the wind from the north. The assailants heard it, for those in advance stopped. Fritz and Jack and the others at once ran back towards the hangar, one or two of them slightly wounded. A gun, Frank exclaimed. And a gun from a ship, or I'm a Dutchman, the boatswain declared. There is a ship in sight, said Monsieur Zermatt. It is the unicorn, Jenny replied. And it's God who has sent her now, Frank murmured. The echoes of falconers rang with the second detonation much closer and the savages recoiled into cover under the trees. Jack sprang to the flagstaff and nimble as any top man scrambled to the top of it. Ship, ship ahoy, he yelled. All eyes returned towards the north. Above Falsport Point, the top sails of a ship appeared, swelling in the morning breeze. A free master on the portac was maneuvering to get round the point which thereafter was known as Cape Deliverance. From Hermitzenmass flew the flag of Great Britain. The women appeared, stretching their hands to heaven in ardent gratitude. What about those ruffians, Fritz inquired? They're running, replied Jack, who had just slid down the flagstaff. Yes, they're running, John Block added. And if they don't clear Jolly Quick, we'll help them along with their last four pounders. And indeed, surprised by the detonations ringing from the north, scared by the sight of the ship coming round the point, the savages had fled to the point where their canoes were lying. They clambered into them, shoved off hard, and paddled vigorously in the direction of Cape East. The boats, Wayne and Jack, went back into the hangar and trained the two guns upon them. And three canoes, cut in half, went to the bottom. Just as a ship, coming under full sail into the arm of the sea, was off Shark's Island, she joined her heavy guns to those of the battery. Most of the progies failed to escape the reign of shot and shell, and only two succeeded in vanishing behind the Cape, never to return. End of chapter 15, recording by Nancy Cochran-Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona. Chapter 16 of the Castaways of the Flag. This is the LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Nancy Cochran-Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona. The Castaways of the Flag by Jules Verne, chapter 16. Conclusion. It actually was the unicorn which had just dropped anchor at the mouth of Deliverance Bay. All the repairs affected. Captain Littlestone had left Cape Town after a stay of several months, and at last had reached New Switzerland, of which he was to take official possession in the name of England. Captain Littlestone now learned from Captain Gold's lips the events of which the flag had been staged. As for what had become of that vessel, whether Robert Baruch was playing pirate in the ill-fade borders of the Pacific, or whether he and his accomplices had perished in some furious tornado, was destined never to be known, and was of little consequence to the islanders. It was an immense satisfaction to the two families when they found that the dwelling at Rock Castle had not been sacked. The natives had probably contemplated taking up their quarters there, intending to settle on the island. There was no damage done to the bedrooms or halls, no sign of pillage in the outhouses or stores, no havoc in the orchard or adjoining fields. They recovered all the domestic animals which had scattered in the neighborhood, the buffalo's storming grumbler, the ostrich whirlwind, the monkey nip, the onager lightfoot, the cow pale face and her meadow companions, the bull roar and his table companions, the asses swift arrow and dart, the jackal and Jenny's albatross which had flown across the arm of the sea between Sharks Island and Rock Castle. As it could not be very long before several ships dispatched from England would arrive with colonists in their stores, it became necessary to choose the site for new buildings. It was decided that they should be erected along the banks of Jackal River up towards the fall. Rock Castle would thus be the first village of the colony pending the time when it should have grown into a town. No doubt in the future it would rank as the capital of New Switzerland for it would be the most important of the little towns which would grow up in the heart of the Promised Land and beyond. The unicorn was under orders to remain in Deliverance Bay until the immigrants arrived so animation reigned along the coast from Falconhurst Beach. Three weeks had not elapsed before a ceremony which it was agreed to make as brilliant as possible brought together Commander Littlestone and the officers and crew of this ship, Captain Harry Gould and the boatsway and all the members of the Zermatt and Walston families now to be united to one another in still closer bonds. On that day the chaplain of the unicorn celebrated in the Chapel of Rock Castle the marriage of Ernest Zermatt and Hannah Walston. It was the first wedding on the island of New Switzerland that the future would no doubt see it followed by many others. And in point of fact, two years later, Frank became the husband of Dolly Walston. On this occasion it was not in the humble chapel that the pastor of the colony gave his blessings to the happy pair. The ceremony was held in a church erected midway between Rock Castle and Falconhurst in the avenue. The steeple rising above the trees was visible through miles out to sea. No need to dilate further upon the progress of New Switzerland. The fortunate isle saw the number of its inhabitants increasing every year. Deliverance Bay, well protected from the winds and waves, offered excellent anchorage for ships. And among these, the Panas Elizabeth cut no bad figure. Regular communication with England was established. This inaugurated a most profitable export trade. By that time there were four more villages. Wood Grange, Sugarcane Grove, Eberford, and Prospect Hill. A harbor was baited the mouth of the Montrose River and another at Unicorn Bay, the latter connected with Deliverance Bay by a good carriage road. Three years after New Switzerland had been taken possession of by England, her population exceeded 2,000. The British government had left the colony her autonomy and Mr. Sir Matt was elected to the position of governor of New Switzerland. Heaven grant that his successors may be as good as that excellent and worthy man. A detachment of troops from India garrisoned the island after fortifications had been constructed at KB's and Cape Deliverance, formerly known as Fossil Point, so as to command the arm of the sea which gave access to Deliverance Bay. Of course, this had nothing to do with any fear of savages, neither those of the Andamans and Nicobars, nor those of the Australian coast. But New Switzerland's position in these waters, besides offering excellent anchorage for ships, was of real importance from a strategic point of view at the entrance to the Sindhu seas and the Indian Ocean. It was only proper, therefore, that it should be provided with needs of defense. Such is the complete history of this island from the day when a storm cast a father, mother and four children upon it. For 12 years, that brave and intelligent family worked without ceasing and set in operation all the energy of the virgin soil, which was rendered fruitful by the magic climate of the tropic regions. And so their prosperity had never ceased to grow, nor their welfare to be increased, until the day when the arrival of the unicorn enabled them to establish relations with the rest of the world. As has been related, a second family voluntarily threw in its fortune with theirs, and materially and morally, existence was never happier than in the fertile domain of the promised land. Then began a period of severe trial. No fortune fell upon these good people. They knew the fear of never seeing again those for whom they were waiting, and the peril of being attacked by heart of savages. But even in the darkest hours of that unhappy time, they never lost faith in providence. Then at last bright days returned, and never again are dark ones to be feared for the second fatherland of the two families. And now New Switzerland is flourishing, and will soon be too small to receive all those who are attracted to her. Her commerce is finding outlets in Europe, as well as in Asia, thanks to the proximity of Australia, India, and the Netherlands possessions. Most fortunately, the nuggets found in the gorge by the Montrose River proved to be very rare, and the colony was not invaded by gold seekers who usually leave nothing but disorder and misery in their train. The marriages which united the Zermatt and Wolfston families have been blessed by heaven. The grandparents will soon feel that they live again in their grandchildren. Only Jack is content with the nephews and nieces who clamor on his knees. He said he was a born uncle, and in that relation was certainly a great success. Though the Anenow forms part of the colonial dominions of Great Britain, it has been allowed to retain its name of New Switzerland in honor of the Zermatt family. End of chapter 16, recording by Nancy Cochran-Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona, and of the castaways of the flag by Jules Verde.