"Then, if you are willing to run the chances," decided the boy, "I will make the attempt to save you.  But I must warn you that in case I find I can not support the weight of your bodies I shall drop one or both of you into the sea."
They looked grave at this prospect, but the biggest one said:
"We would soon meet death from starvation if you left us here on the island; so, as there is at least a chance of our being able to escape in your company I, for one, am willing to risk being drowned.  It is easier and quicker than being starved.  And, as I'm the heavier, I suppose you'll drop me first."
"Certainly," declared Rob, promptly.
This announcement seemed to be an encouragement to the little sailor, but he said, nervously:
"I hope you'll keep near the water, for I haven't a good head for heights--they always make me dizzy."
"Oh, if you don't want to go," began Rob, "I can easily--"
"But I do! I do! I do!" cried the little man, interrupting him.  "I shall die if you leave me behind!"
"Well, then, get your ropes, and we'll do the best we can," said the boy.
They ran to the trees, around the trunks of which were clinging many tendrils of greenish-brown vine which possessed remarkable strength. With their knives they cut a long section of this vine, the ends of which were then tied into loops large enough to permit the sailors to sit in them comfortably.  The connecting piece Rob padded with seaweed gathered from the shore, to prevent its cutting into his shoulders.