Page:Anderson--Isle of seven moons.djvu/72

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THE ISLE OF SEVEN MOONS

blue. Its form grew more distinct. A tiny cone rose from its center. It grew into a mountain top. Rounded masses around it gave evidence of trees; a white strip betrayed sand; and gradually he was borne between the encircling arms of two coral reefs into a peaceful, happy bay.

Gently the rollers carried him to the white shore. Wearily he unlashed himself, then, too spent to move, lay on the sand in the sun. But so deep and full are the hidden reservoirs of human vitality and so strengthening was the thought of his escape that he finally managed to stagger to his feet. Crossing the sand and searching through the tropical vegetation, he discovered, but a few rods away, a little spring; drank of its cooling water, and then fell fast asleep.