As they had supposed, Dr.Rowlands gave a ready consent to the row, on condition of their being accompanied by the experienced sailor whom the boys called Jim.

The precaution was by no means unnecessary, for the various currents which ran round the island were violent at certain stages of the tide, and extremely dangerous for any who were not aware of their general course.
Feeling that the day would pass off very unpleasantly if any feeling of restraint remained between him and Montagu, Eric, by a strong effort, determined to "make up with him" before starting, and went into his study for that purpose after breakfast.

Directly he came in, Montagu jumped up and welcomed him cordially, and when, without any allusion to the past, the two shook hands with all warmth, and looked the old proud look into each other's faces, they felt once more that their former affection was unimpaired, and that in heart they were real and loving friends.

Most keenly did they both enjoy the renewed intercourse, and they found endless subjects to talk about on their way to Starhaven, where the others were already assembled when they came.
With Jim's assistance they shoved a boat into the water, and sprang into it in the highest spirits.

Just as they were pushing off they saw Wright and Vernon running down to the shore towards them, and they waited to see what they wanted.