"Let us go on," said Ready, thoughtfully; they went on to where the run
of water appeared to have been - the dogs snuffed about more eagerly
than before.

"You see, William, these poor dogs are now so eager for water, that if
there is any, they will find it out where we never could. I don't
expect water above-ground, but there may be some below it. This beach
is hardly far enough from the water's edge, or I should try in the sand
for it."

"In the sand - but would it not be salt?" replied William.

"No, not if at a good distance from the sea-beach; for you see,
William, the sand by degrees filters the sea-water fresh, and very
often when the sand runs in a long way from the high-water mark, if you
dig down, you will find good fresh water, at other times it is a little
brackish, but still fit for use."

"Look, Ready, at Romulus and Remus - how hard they are digging with
their paws there in the hollow."

"Thanks to Heaven that they are! You don't know how happy you have made
me feel: for, to tell you the truth, I was beginning to be alarmed."

"But why do they dig?"

"Because there is water there, poor animals. Now you see the advantage
of having kept them in pain for a few hours; it is in all probability
the saving of all of us, for we must either have found water or quitted
this island. Now let us help the poor dogs with the spade, and they