The tension tightens in Chapter 4 of Treasure Island as Jim Hawkins and his resolute mother face a perilous decision: abandon the Admiral Benbow Inn or return to claim what’s rightfully theirs. With the death of Billy Bones and pirates closing in, they seek help from the nearby hamlet—but find only cowardice among the townsfolk.

Mrs. Hawkins, unshaken, declares: “If none of the rest of you dare, Jim and I dare. Back we go, the way we came, and small thanks to you big, hulking, chicken-hearted men.”

Driven by sheer determination, they brave the danger and return to the inn, where the ominous sea chest awaits. Inside, they uncover relics of Billy Bones’ shadowy past: coins, unworn clothes, and something far more precious—a map hinting at untold riches. Jim’s heart races as he realizes the map could lead to a legendary pirate treasure.

But their daring is not without consequence. A sharp knock at the door sends fear coursing through their veins. One of the pirates has returned. Holding their breath, they wait as Pew, the blind pirate, prowls outside, his presence a chilling reminder of the danger they face.

With the clock ticking and the footsteps of more pirates closing in, Jim and his mother flee into the night, taking refuge under a bridge. But the shadows are alive with pursuit. What secrets does the treasure map hold? Can Jim and his mother escape the grasp of the relentless pirates, or will the darkness claim them? The chase is on, and the stakes have never been higher.

MAKE A TINDER BOX

“I felt in his pockets, one after another. A few small coins, a thimble, and some thread and big needles, a piece of pigtail tobacco bitten away at the end, his gully with the crooked handle, a pocket compass, and a tinder-box…”

A tinder box contains all the items needed to start a fire. With caution, let’s create a tinder box, just like that of Billy Bones.

TERMS TO KNOW

Hamlet – a small settlement or village, often in rural areas.

Kitt’s Hole - a small, sheltered cove that serves as a place for anchoring ships. It is mentioned again in Chapter 23.

Lugger – a small sailing vessel with one or more lugsails, which are quadrilateral sails mounted on a diagonal yard (a spar). Commonly used for trade, fishing, and sometimes smuggling due to their speed and maneuverability.

Tinder-box - a small container used to store tinder, flint, and other materials for starting a fire.

Tin canikin – a small cup or tankard for drinking typically made of tin, commonly used by sailors and pirates aboard ships.

Boat-cloak – a type of heavy, waterproof cloak worn by sailors, made to protect against the elements while on deck.

Harbor-bar – a natural or artificial barrier, often consisting of sand or mud, that lies at the entrance of a harbor or river.

Quadrant – a navigational instrument used by sailors to measure angles, particularly the altitude of celestial bodies above the horizon. It is a crucial tool for determining latitude at sea, helping sailors navigate and plot their course during voyages.