rvous, and listened with painful interest for the slightest
sound. The falling of a leaf startled him; and, at last, unable to
restrain himself, he determined again to fire his gun.

At that instant there came a crash of Leland's rifle, followed by the
maddened shouts of infuriated savages, so near that Leslie sprung to his
feet and gazed about him. Recovering himself, he stooped, and, seizing a
paddle, began shoving the boat toward shore, fully determined to afford
his friend all the assistance that lay in his power.

The boat had hardly touched, when there was a rustling in the bushes
directly before him, and the next instant Kent stood beside him.

"Quick--shove out! They are after me!" he exclaimed, springing into the
boat and grasping the oars.

"Where is George?" asked Leslie.

"They've got him, and came nigh getting me. Cuss the infernal devils!"

In a moment the two had freed themselves from the bushes. As the yells
of their enemies were heard upon the shore, they had reached the center
of the stream, and were passing swiftly downward.

CHAPTER VIII.

THE COMPANION IN CAPTIVITY.

When Leland left the boat, he wandered forward for a considerable
distance, not noticing the direction in which he was going, only intent
upon securing game of some sort or other. Still, he exercised
considerable caution in his movements, and determined not to risk a shot
unless he was certain of his success. Birds and quadrupeds were plenty,
and he did not entertain any doubts of his ability to secure all that he
wished. He permitted several good shots to pass, for the reason that he
did not wish to fire until the hour was up. By this means he
unconsciously increased the distance between himself and Leslie, until
it occurred to him that the hour had nearly expired. A few minutes
after, having a good opportunity, he improved it, and, securing his
prize, turned to retrace his steps.

Then it flashed upon him, for the first time, that he was lost. As we
said, he had failed to notice the direction, and had no idea of the
course to pursue in order to reach the river. The only means left was to
proceed by guess; contrary to what might be expected, he took the right
course. His anxiety caused him to be somewhat heedless; and after
proceeding a short distance, he again discharged his rifle. Then hearing
the report of Leslie's rifle but a short distance away, he set joyously
forward, confident of soon coming up to him. He had