in their own ability to know and judge as to what is best and
fittest in reference to their own affairs. But, to return from
this digression, for which I humbly crave forgiveness.

We had not advanced on our journey much above a mile or so, and
were just beginning to feel the pleasant glow that usually
accompanies vigorous exercise, when, on turning a point that
revealed to us a new and beautiful cluster of islands, we were
suddenly arrested by the appalling cry which had so alarmed us a
few nights before. But this time we were by no means so much
alarmed as on the previous occasion, because, whereas at that time
it was night, now it was day; and I have always found, though I am
unable to account for it, that daylight banishes many of the fears
that are apt to assail us in the dark.

On hearing the sound, Peterkin instantly threw forward his spear.

"Now, what can it be?" said he, looking round at Jack. "I tell you
what it is, if we are to go on being pulled up in a constant state
of horror and astonishment, as we have been for the last week, the
sooner we're out o' this island the better, notwithstanding the
yams and lemonade, and pork and plums!"

Peterkin's remark was followed by a repetition of the cry, louder
than before.

"It comes from one of these islands," said Jack.

"It must be the ghost of a jackass, then," said Peterkin, "for I
never heard anything so like."