(Continuing from Part 14) After making a list of the good and bad things in my life, I began to feel calmer. I was still alone, but I had food, tools, weapons, and a safe place to sleep. I decided to write a journal describing my experiences on the island. I had rescued paper, pens, … Read more
(Continuing from Part 13) As I sat alone in my shelter, I began thinking about everything that had happened to me. I had survived a terrible shipwreck, but I was now living on an island far from other people. I had no family, no friends, and no hope of being rescued soon. Sometimes my sadness … Read more
(Continuing from Part 12) As I continued making my home more comfortable, I began to think about another problem. I was completely alone, and there was nobody to tell me what day it was. Without a calendar, I might soon forget the weeks, months, and even years. I remembered the day I had first reached … Read more
(Continuing from Part 11) After choosing a place beside the steep hillside, I began preparing to build my new home. The location seemed suitable for several reasons. The ground was dry and level, the hill would protect me from behind, and I could see the sea from nearby. I still hoped that a ship might … Read more
(Continuing from Part 10) The next morning, I woke early and looked toward the sea. The weather was calm, and the wrecked ship was still standing on the sandbank. I was pleased to see it. Although I had already brought many useful things to shore, I knew that the ship contained much more. I decided … Read more
(Continuing from Part 09) After climbing aboard the wrecked ship, I began thinking about how to carry supplies back to shore. I had found food, drink, and many useful objects, but I could not swim while carrying heavy things. I needed a raft. Fortunately, the ship contained plenty of wood, ropes, and tools. I found … Read more
(Continuing from Part 08) The enormous wave struck our little boat and threw all of us into the sea. I sank deep beneath the water. For several moments, I could not breathe. The sea was so violent that I did not know which direction was upward. I thought I was going to die. Then the … Read more
(Continuing from Part 07) My plantation in Brazil was becoming more successful every year. I had worked hard to improve my land, and my crops were growing well. I was no longer a poor young man searching for opportunities. I owned property, had useful equipment, and could look forward to a comfortable future. If I … Read more
(Continuing from Part 06) As the Portuguese ship approached our little boat, I felt an enormous sense of relief. For many days, Xury and I had traveled along the African coast, uncertain whether we would ever reach safety. Now a large European ship was coming toward us. The sailors called out in several languages, including … Read more
(Continuing from Part 05) After killing the lion and taking its skin, Xury and I continued sailing south along the African coast. For ten or twelve days, we traveled almost without stopping. Our food supplies were becoming smaller, so we ate very carefully. We went ashore only when we needed fresh water. I hoped to … Read more