In which the solitary exile, after long reflection on the folly of discontent with one’s lot and the mercies of Providence, resolves upon a bold design to secure companionship and assistance by capturing one of the savage natives recently landed upon the shore. By a fortunate encounter with a fleeing captive whom he saves from his pursuers, he gains a faithful servant named Friday, whose presence transforms his solitary life and affords him new hopes and comforts amidst the wild dangers of the island.