Swallows and Amazons · Chapter
XXVIII: The Treasure on Cormorant Island explained
Titty wakes with the firm idea of searching for treasure on Cormorant Island.
What happens
Titty wakes with the firm idea of searching for treasure on Cormorant Island. She persuades Roger to join her, and despite skepticism from the others, they set off in the Swallow. After a difficult landing and a thorough search, Titty discovers a hidden iron-bound box under a fallen tree, covered with travel labels from around the world, confirming the treasure is real.
Themes in this chapter
Adventure and Imagination
Titty's determination to find treasure on Cormorant Island turns a barren rock into a desert island of mystery and discovery.
Independence and Self-Reliance
Titty and Roger set off alone in the Swallow, navigating and exploring without adult supervision.
Friendship and Alliance
Titty and Roger work together as a team, following the code of the ship and supporting each other.
Characters to notice
- Titty Walker
Leads the treasure hunt on Cormorant Island, determined and imaginative.
- Roger Walker
Accompanies Titty as her crew, follows her commands enthusiastically.
- John Walker
Gives permission for the expedition and lends the compass.
- Susan Walker
Prepares provisions and instructs Roger to obey Titty.
- Nancy Blackett
Calls out to them as they depart, suggesting they join the whaling instead.
- Peggy Blackett
Tries to persuade Titty to abandon the treasure hunt for whaling.
Key passages
“We must face our dangers. We must keep together. And you must do what you are told.”
Titty instructs Roger that they must confront challenges as a team and follow orders.
Titty establishes the rules of their expedition, emphasizing unity and discipline.
“It was a fine day without much wind, just what she wanted, for she knew that if there had been a strong wind she and Roger would not have been allowed to go off in Swallow by themselves, without the captain or the mate.”
Titty is relieved the weather is calm, as a windy day would have prevented their solo trip.
Shows Titty's awareness of the adults' rules and her careful planning.
“We've found it, we've found it, we've found it,”
Titty shouts in excitement upon uncovering the treasure box.
Climactic moment of discovery after persistent searching.