.

Perhaps he thought Alzura was singing. But my companion in adversity
did not take the suggestion in good part; indeed it seemed to annoy him.

"Never mind," said I cheerfully; "they can't march us about for ever.
We are bound to meet with civilized beings some time or other."

"But these fellows may belong to the Royalists! Many of the Indians on
this side of the mountains do. Then we shall be taken back to the
island!"

"We shall have guides across the morass, though; that's one thing to be
thankful for."

"And be put in irons! Perhaps you think that's a subject for
cheerfulness?"

"We shouldn't be able to risk our lives again, at all events."

"Oh, go to sleep," exclaimed Alzura, "if you've nothing more sensible
than that to say!" and he rolled a little nearer the fire.

The next morning the Indians resumed their journey, and after a weary
tramp of many miles, encamped on the side of a mountain, where stood
several huts in a half-ruined state. One of these was set aside for
us, and a sentry was placed at the door.

Here we remained for three weeks while our captors made frequent
excursions, starting early in the morning and returning late at night,
though of their object we had not the faintest idea. At the end of
that time we were taken with them; and from morn till night, for
several days in succession, we roamed about those dreadful mountains,
till every muscle in our bodies ached with fatigue.

"What is the use of it all?" I asked Alzura gloomily. "What do they
expect to gain by this continual tramp up and down?"

"It's my belief that they can't help themselves," he replied. "It's a
disease, a form of madness, which keeps them continually on the move.
Yesterday we climbed the same hill a dozen times, and finished at the
starting-point. Or perhaps it's some new kind of warfare they've
invented."

"It's awfully ridiculous, anyhow, and I don't see that we've gained
much by leaving the island--unless it's exercise."

"When the war is over, I'll give up walking altogether," said my chum
resolutely. "When I'm not on horseback, or in a carriage of some kind,
I'll be carried about in a chair. If this lasts much longer, my feet
will be worn out."

That evening the Indians lit their fire earlier than usual--a
circumstance for which we were duly grateful. We ate our supper, and
sat chatting together cheerfully, being put in good humour by the
warmth and brightness of the ruddy flames.

Sudd