The work was now complete as far as Tom could do it; and on examining it, he regretted that he had not thought of this before.  He felt an exultation that he had never known in his life.  If he, by his own efforts, could thus rescue himself, what a cause it would be always after to struggle against misfortune, and rise superior to circumstances!

As to the voyage, Tom’s plan was the same that it had been on a former occasion.  He would float the boat at high tide, and then push off, keeping her near the shore, yet afloat until ebb tide.  Then, when the tide should turn, and the current run up the bay, he would put off, and float along with the stream until he reached land.

According to his calculations it would be high tide about two hours after dark, which would be some time after ten.  He would have to be up all night; for the tide would not turn until after four in the morning.  But that did not trouble him.  He would have too much on his mind to allow him to feel sleepy, and, besides, the hope which lay before him would prevent him from feeling fatigue.

One thing more remained, and that was, to bring up a fresh supply of fuel.  The night would be dark, and while floating in the boat, he would need the light of the fire.  So he brought up from the beach an ample supply of drift-wood, and laid it with the rest.

When Tom’s work was ended, it was late in the day, and he determined to secure some sleep before he began his long night’s work.  He knew that he could waken at the right time; so he laid himself down in his tent, and soon slept the sleep of the weary.

By ten o’clock he was awake.  He found the water already up to the boat.  There was no time to lose.  He carried his box of biscuit on board, and filled his pan with water from the brook, so as to secure himself against thirst in case the boat should float away farther than he anticipated.  Then he took his paddle, and got into the boat.

The water came up higher.  Most anxiously Tom watched it as it rose.  The fire was burning low, and in order to make more light, Tom went ashore and heaped an immense quantity of wood upon it.  The flames now blazed up bright, and on going back again to the boat, the water was plainly visible as it closed around the bows.

Most anxiously he now awaited, with his eyes fastened upon the bottom of the boat.  He had not brought the old sail this time, but left it over his tent, and he could see plainly.  Higher came the water, and still higher, yet none came into the boat, and Tom could scarce believe in his good fortune.

At last the boat floated!

Yes, the crisis had come and passed, and the boat floated!

There was now no longer any doubt.  His work was successful; his deliverance was sure.  The way over the waters was open.  Farewell to his island prison!  Welcome once more the great world!  Welcome home, and friends, and happiness!