CHAPTER 4

The colonists on the beach—Ayrton and Pencroft work amid the wreck—Conversation during breakfast—Pencroffs arguments— Minute examination of the brig’s hull—The powder-magazine untouched—New riches—The last of the wreck—A broken piece of cylinder. “She has blown up!” cried Herbert. “Yes! blown up, just as if Ayrton had set fire to the powder!” returned Pencroft, throwing himself into the lift together with Neb and the lad. “But what has happened?” asked Gideon Spilett, quite stunned by this unexp…