Summary

Aboard a yacht, somewhere in the Caribbean, Whitney points out "Ship-Trap Island," to his friend and fellow hunting companion, Rainsford. "Ship-Trap Island" is a mysterious island dreaded by sailors, as suggested by the name. Rainsford peers into the darkness but can't see a thing in the dark, moonless night. The two are headed towards Rio, where they are going to hunt jaguars. Jaguars are formidable prey- or, are supposed to be, even for serious hunters.

As they discuss their destination, Rainsford express his delight in hunting. Whitney counters his enthusiasm by remarking that hunting may be fine for the hunter, but not for the hunted. Rainsford laughs at the idea that there should be any problem for the poor dumb, jaguar. Rainsford has no pity for wild beasts nor does he feel for their pain. Whitney's concerns seem trivial to him...