The Cruise of the 'Alerte' / The narrative of a search for treasure on the desert island of Trinidad

A seafaring narrator recounts an expedition organised to seek a reputed buried treasure on a remote volcanic island. The account begins with the treasure's story and the island's dangerous shores, then follows the fitting out of a small vessel, the selection of crew, and successive voyages. It describes difficult landings, the establishment of a beach camp, arduous climbs and explorations of ravines, sustained digging and supply voyages, encounters with harsh weather and wildlife, and growing strain among the party. After months of labor and many tons of earth moved, the search is abandoned and the expedition returns home, reflecting on the effort and disappointment.