Chapter 9
At this
point the men thought an island would be salvation and for a while it was. The men
had spotted an island made of coral, and after cautious inspection they landed
on the beach. The first thought on everyone’s mind was water. They found crevasses
that had just drops left in them from the last rain, but over were originally
unsuccessful, however they did happen to be able to find food. They ate native
birds, fish, crab, and what flora they could find. The search for water on the following day
proved to be more successful. The men found a spring. It was only accessible at
low tide all other times it was covered by the harsh salt water of the Pacific
Ocean. They stayed on the beach for a few more days, but after filling all
containers that would hold water they set out again. They put a large stone in
the bottom of each boat and brought fire wood so they could stay warm in to
coming weeks of winter and also to cook their food. (pg. 149) However, when
boarding three men did not join the rest of the crew they elected to stay
behind and take they chances on the island. I thought this was the smartest
decision possible. They found a spring they had access to fresh water and even
if they decided it was a hassle have to wait for the tide they could have
easily dug a well with the whaling tools they had.
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