CHAPTER 2

Discussions—Presentiments—Ayrton’s proposal—It is accepted— Ayrton and Pencroft on Grant Islet—Convicts from Norfolk Island —Ayrton’s heroic attempt—His return—Six against fifty. There was no longer any doubt as to the pirates’ intentions. They had dropped anchor at a short distance from the island, and it was evident that the next day by means of their boats they purposed to land on the beach! Cyrus Harding and his companions were ready to act, but, determined though they were, they must not forget to be…