ountain deer, most likely," he said. "We'll find out to-morrow--if
the good weather holds out."

"Do you think we'll have a storm?" asked Joe quickly.

"We'll have something; don't you think so, captain?"

"I think we'll have more wind than rain," returned Captain Moore.

"If we have a high wind, will it be safe right on the mountain top?"
questioned Joe.

"We won't stay here," said old Benson. "I know of a much better
camping-place. Come, while it is still a little light." And they set off
once more.

The place the old scout had in mind was close beside a cliff. The wall
of rocks was twice as high as their heads, and on either side was a
growth of heavy timber. There was a spring at hand and a grassy patch
which promised them an easy bed, providing it did not rain.

"If it storms we can seek the shelter of the cliff," said old Benson.
"It won't be as comfortable as a house or cabin, but it will be a good
deal better than being right in the open."

The boys were glad enough to rest after the wearisome ride over the top
of the mountain, and hungry for the meal the old scout took upon himself
to prepare.

When the fire was lit it burned up lively, blowing the sparks in several
directions. As soon as he finished cooking the meal Benson put out the
blaze.

"Too much wind," he said, in reply to a question from Joe. "I don't want
to set the whole mountain side on fire."

Benson was right about the wind, which was now sweeping strongly through
the tops of the tall trees. Presently it came lower, and shook up the
brushwood. The night birds began to fly around, uttering their shrill
cries. The old scout listened to the birds with some concern.

"It's going to be a big blow," he said to Darry.

"You are sure?"

"Yes. The birds are afraid of it. See how they flutter around? That's a
sure sign."

"Birds must know a good deal, Benson."

"They do, lad--a heap sight more than folks gives 'em credit for. We
could learn a good deal from them, if we'd only set our minds to it."

They took their time about eating, having nothing else to do. Then
Benson cared for the horses, putting them in the shelter of the brush,
but away from the big trees.

At last it began to blow in earnest, and presently they heard a tree
limb here and there snap with a loud report. Then the wind became so
furious they were glad enough to huddle under the cliff for shelter.

"It's coming now!" shouted old Benson suddenly. "Hold fast to your