On his little territory he fished and grew a few vegetables, "trading in" his produce at the Hampton grocery stores for his simple wants.

He, however, had a pension, and was supposed to have a "snug little fortune" laid by.

His only companion in his island solitude was it big Newfoundland dog named "Skipper." The animal stood beside its master on the dock and wagged its tail at the sight of the boys, whom it knew quite well from their frequent visits to the captain's little island.
"Hullo, captain!" shouted Rob, as the veteran saluted his three young friends.

"Where's your boat ?" "Oh, her engine went--busted, and I had to leave her at the yard below fer repairs," explained the captain.

"I wonder if yer boys can give me a lift back if yer goin' near Topsail Island ?" "Surest thing you know," rejoined Rob hastily.