leaves collected together, burst all the pigs which had been brought on
shore, grunting and galloping away as fast as they could, with the dogs
in pursuit of them.

"It's only the pigs," said Ready, smiling; "I never thought I should be
half-frightened by a tame pig. Here, Romulus! here, Remus! come back!"
continued Ready, calling to the dogs. "Well, William, this is our first
adventure."

"I hope we shall not meet with any one more dangerous," replied
William, laughing; "but I must say that I was alarmed."

"No wonder; for, although not likely, it is possible there may be wild
animals on this island, or even savages; but being alarmed is one
thing, and being afraid is another: a man may be alarmed, and stand his
ground; but a man that is afraid will run away."

"I do not think I shall ever run away and leave you, Ready, if there is
danger."

"I'm sure you will not; but still you must not be rash; and now we will
go on again, as soon as I have uncocked my gun. I have seen more
accidents happen from people cocking their guns, and forgetting to
uncock them afterwards, than you can have any idea of. Recollect, also,
until you want to fire, never cock your gun."

Ready and William continued their way through the cocoa-nut grove for
more than an hour longer, marking the trees as they went along; they
then sat down to take their breakfast.