This page has been validated.
THE BATTLE ON THE BEACH
117

But I don't think the transport would leave so quick. They must have carried us a long way after batting us over the head with their clubs. And if that's so, then we are still a good distance from the coast," added Si, ruefully.

They decided that, with the coming of daylight, they would climb a tall tree and do their best to "get the lay o' the land," as Si expressed it. If the bay and the ship were anywhere in sight, they would make a beeline thence, keeping their eyes wide open for any natives who might be watching for them.

"And if the ship isn't in sight—" said Walter. He did not finish, and Si's only answer was a sad shake of the head. If the transport was gone, there was no telling what they would do.

So tired they could scarcely keep their eyes open, and yet so nervous that even a nap was out of the question, the chums waited for the coming of daylight. The jungle had been very quiet, but toward morning the birds began to tune up, and soon numerous insects joined in, followed by the shrill cry of parrots.

With the first sign of daylight they aroused themselves and hunted up a tall tree—a species of giant