"I believe in taking time by the forelock, as the saying is." The matter was talked over for a few minutes, and then it was decided to let Tom, Dick, and Sam go ashore in company with two sailors, who would then bring the rowboat back to the steam yacht.

The boys were to take blankets and some provisions with them and spend the night on the island.
"I don't think you'll find the cave without Bahama Bill's aid," said Mr.Rover.

"But it will do no harm to look around.

If this isle is like the rest of the West Indies there will be little on it to hurt you.

There are few wild animals down here, and no savages outside of some negroes who occasionally go on a spree and cut loose.." The rowboat was soon ready, and the boys embarked, with the best wishes of those left behind.