(Continuing from Part 44) The sound of our guns filled the air, and the men gathered on the beach were thrown into confusion. Friday and I had fired from behind the trees, where we could not easily be seen. Several of the visitors had fallen, while the others looked around in fear. They did not … Read more
(Continuing from Part 43) Friday and I had finished our large canoe and were waiting for the proper season to begin our journey. We had worked hard to make the boat strong enough to carry us toward the mainland. I had taught Friday to use a sail and rudder, and he had shown me much … Read more
(Continuing from Part 42) After Friday told me about the seventeen Europeans living on the mainland, I began thinking seriously about leaving the island. For many years, I had wished for a chance to escape. Now I had a companion who understood the surrounding sea and knew people on the opposite shore. I believed that … Read more
(Continuing from Part 41) As Friday learned more English, I found greater pleasure in his company. At first, we had communicated mostly through gestures. Now we could speak about ordinary matters, and he could answer many of my questions. He was intelligent and learned quickly. I had taught him to help with the goats, prepare … Read more
(Continuing from Part 40) After Friday came to live with me, my life on the island changed greatly. For more than twenty years, I had worked, eaten, and rested alone. Now I had someone to speak to and someone who could help me with my daily tasks. I was grateful for his company, but I … Read more
(Continuing from Part 39) After rescuing the young prisoner from the men who pursued him, I knew that we must leave the shore quickly. The sound of my gun might have been heard by the other visitors. If they came searching for their companions, they might discover us. I led the young man into the … Read more
(Continuing from Part 38) After my remarkable dream, I continued watching the coast for an opportunity to rescue a prisoner. I had imagined a young man escaping from his captors and running toward my hiding place. In the dream, I had saved him, and he had helped me prepare for a journey to the mainland. … Read more
(Continuing from Part 37) After returning from the wrecked ship, I could not stop thinking about the unfortunate sailors. I had found no living man aboard. The only creature I had rescued was a dog, which had been starving and desperately thirsty. The ship had provided me with useful supplies, but I would gladly have … Read more
(Continuing from Part 36) After discovering the wrecked ship among the rocks, I could think of little else. I had heard its cannon firing during the night and had made a great fire on the shore, hoping the sailors would see it. But when morning came, the ship lay broken upon the rocks. I feared … Read more
(Continuing from Part 35) After discovering the secret cave, I began to feel more secure on my island. I had hidden some of my gunpowder and weapons inside it, and I knew that I could retreat there if strangers discovered my main shelter. Nevertheless, I remained cautious. The terrible remains I had found on the … Read more