6

THE BIG CANOE

have done. We are just as likely to run into a herd of
seal or otter as they are. Think how pleased our fa-
ther would be if we returned with our canoe full of
furs!”

“There is something else we might find,” Kilsa
suggested. “I have been thinking and thinking about
it. It is the island that Shim the Story-teller mentioned
in his story last night—the island where all the puffin
birds live, where so many puffin birds have died that
all the ground is covered with their beaks. If we could
only find that island, Kahala! If we could only fill
our canoe with those precious puffin beaks! Then we
should be able to buy many things for our father, for
the puffin beaks are very valuable and would purchase
many things.”

“That is a fine idea!” Kahala cried, jumping to his
feet. “Let us go at once, Kilsa. Let us go with our
sails just as they are. If we do not hurry, somebody
else may think of the same thing!”

“It is a long way off, this island,” Kilsa protested.
“Shim said it was far away upon the sea. Besides, it
is a hidden island. What chance have we to find
mbes

“As much chance as any one else,” Kahala de-
clared. “Come, Kilsa, let us leave at once; then we
can be far away when darkness falls to-night.”

As usual, Kahala had his way. The torn sails were
hastily mended, food was stored in the canoe along
with other necessary articles, and Kali, the freed