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Then, if you are willing to run the chances," decided the boy, "I will

make the attempt to save you. But I must warn you that in case I find I

can not support the weight of your bodies I shall drop one or both of you

into the sea."

They looked grave at this prospect, but the biggest one said:

We would soon meet death from starvation if you left us here on the

island; so, as there is at least a chance of our being able to escape in

your company I, for one, am willing to risk being drowned. It is easier

and quicker than being starved. And, as I'm the heavier, I suppose you'll

drop me first."

Certainly," declared Rob, promptly.

This announcement seemed to be an encouragement to the little sailor,

but he said, nervously:

I hope you'll keep near the water, for I haven't a good head for heights--

they always make me dizzy."

Oh, if you don't want to go," began Rob, "I can easily--"

But I do! I do! I do!" cried the little man, interrupting him. "I shall die if

you leave me behind!"

Well, then, get your ropes, and we'll do the best we can," said the boy.

They ran to the trees, around the trunks of which were clinging many

tendrils of greenish-brown vine which possessed remarkable strength.

With their knives they cut a long section of this vine, the ends of which

were then tied into loops large enough to permit the sailors to sit in them

comfortably. The connecting piece Rob padded with seaweed gathered

from the shore, to prevent its cutting into his shoulders.

Now, then," he said, when all was ready, "take your places."

The sailors squatted in the loops, and Rob swung the vine over his

shoulders and turned the indicator of the traveling machine to "up."

As they slowly mounted into the sky the little sailor gave a squeal of

terror and clung to the boy's arm; but the other, although seemingly

anxious, sat quietly in his place and made no trouble.

The Master Key