The chaplain's heart was touched at the sight of the wan, wasted Maori sitting dull-eyed, wrapped in his blanket, coughing and spitting blood.

His kindness drew back Ruatara from the grave's brink and made him a grateful and attached pupil.

Together they talked of the savage islands, which one longed to see and the other to regain.

Nor did their friendship end with the voyage.

More adventures and disappointments awaited Ruatara before he at last reached home.