Exploring the island

The Professor made a drawing of a lean-to to start with. “We can make these today and then worry about making better shelters once we have water and food.” The Skipper grabbed a machete from the tools salvaged from the boat. He found a bamboo grove and started hacking down long poles for the leantos. The professor found some sturdy vines to tie the bamboo together. The Skipper found palm leaves to cover the roof.

Mr. and Mrs. Howell wandered into the jungle in their finery. “I’m going to ruin this dress, Thurston,” Mrs. Howell lamented. “My cravat is getting sweaty, Lovey,” he retorted. They followed an animal path through the undergrowth.

Mary Ann forged ahead while Gillian and Ginger lagged behind, Gillian out of fear, and Ginger out of laziness.

"Oh, look at that!" Mrs. Howell exclaimed, pointing ahead. "I think I see something sparkling."

Mr. Howell squinted through the dappled jungle light. "Lovey, if that's diamonds, we might make this little detour worthwhile after all."

They pushed through a curtain of vines to discover a small waterfall cascading into a clear pool. The sunlight caught the water droplets, creating the sparkling effect Mrs. Howell had spotted.

"Water, darling! Not diamonds," Mrs. Howell said, her disappointment evident.

Mr. Howell dabbed at his forehead with a monogrammed handkerchief. "Well, I suppose it's better than nothing. The Skipper did say to find water, not riches." He bent down awkwardly, cupping his hands to take a sip. "Hmm, not bad. Certainly better than the swill they served on that tour boat."