The question of building another craft remained in abeyance for a time,
all attention being given to the furnishing, the decking, rigging, and
other fittings of the _Little Planet_. Then the cases of specimens were
got down and placed on board, Panton's first, for they took the place of
ballast. Then all necessary stores and water were stowed away, with
compass, instruments, and everything ready for an immediate start.
"We shall be packed pretty close," said the mate; "but I propose that we
land whenever we have an opportunity, so that we shall not feel the
confinement quite so much."
"Then, now that all is right, we may go on collecting?"
"Yes," said the mate, "and I think instead of attempting to build
another it would be wiser to half-deck over our two best boats and store
them ready. I can't help feeling that it will be safer, and that if we
try to save too much we may lose all."
This was finally settled, and a crew selected for the lugger under one
or other of the passengers, each taking the command for a week.