distance was great, and there were many scarlet head-dresses among the
bathers ashore and afloat.

And after a while he settled back on his oars, cast a last glance
astern, and pulled for the _Ariani_, aboard of which Portlaw was already
bellowing at him through an enormous megaphone.

Malcourt, who looked much younger than he really was, appeared on the
after deck, strolling about with a telescope tucked up under one arm,
both hands in his trousers pockets; and, as Hamil pulled under the
stern, he leaned over the rail: "Hello, Hamil! Any trade with the
natives in prospect? How far will a pint of beads go with the lady
aborigines?"

"Better ask at the Beach Club," replied Hamil, laughing; "I say,
Malcourt, I've had a corking swim out yonder--"

"Go in deep?" inquired Malcourt guilelessly.

"Deep? It's forty fathoms off the reef."

"I didn't mean the water," murmured Malcourt.




CHAPTER II

A LANDING