"It is all I ask. But if we would not be followed by war
canoes, which could easily overtake us, we must use much cunning in the
manner of our going."
We then took counsel together, when Melannie advised that our best
chance to escape would be at the time of the coming of the snake god.
When the monster appeared, and for three days afterward, while it
remained in the coral cave, the savages would be held to the spot by
their traditions from which nothing would induce them to depart. We
might then slip away unobserved, and be out of sight of land before the
ceremonies in connexion with the sacrifice were over. This appearing to
be our opportunity, we at once set about making preparations. From a
stream near the cave I filled the boat's water-tank, and we collected a
quantity of coconuts, bananas, and other fruits, which we stowed on
board; nor did I forget to take some of the largest gems from the
treasure cave, which I stuffed into my belt with the others. The gold I
did not touch. It was heavy to carry, and its transport might have
caused suspicion. We also launched the boat, with some difficulty, into
a natural boat harbour formed by a coral reef, so that no time might be
lost in getting away.
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