To load the boat with provisions and arms, to push it out to sea, and ship the oars, was the work of an instant.

We had not gone two cable-lengths, when a hundred savages, howling and gesticulating, entered the water up to their waists.

I watched to see if their apparition would attract some men from the Nautilus on to the platform.

But no.

The enormous machine, lying off, was absolutely deserted.
Twenty minutes later we were on board.