and come back.

In the crow's nest of the mast which was still standing they kept a
constant watch in the hope of sighting a vessel and signalling of their
distress. Day after day went by with no sign of help. Mercilessly the
tropical sun burned down on the dreary sandbar. Scurvy broke out. The
small amount of rations which they had, water-soaked biscuits and
salted meats, increased their thirst, and to add to their distress the
cannibals on the opposite shore mockingly showed them bunches of
luscious bananas and other tropical fruits.

"Don't look there any more, Willy," said Peppo. "Those dreadful
cannibals are only just showing us the fruit to tantalize us, and if we
go after it we shall be murdered and eaten up the way I've told you
about."

"But, Peppo, I think the thirst is just as bad as being killed,"
complained Willy, "I'd just as soon be killed as die of thirst."

"That's just what my people were saying today," answered Peppo. "Lihoa
told them that they were to be patient a little longer, that the rain
would surely come for he had seen unfailing signs. We will bear the
thirst with patience for a little time yet. You know why I want them
to hold out. I want to convert them. My poor countrymen!"

"Peppo! how came you to think of that?" said Willy, looking at his
friend with open eyes.

"I don't know. Just a little while ago when I was praying the thought
came to me, and I firmly believe that God saved me from the cannibals