uth American forests, as it often attacks
the thick-skinned tapir, and even the largest alligator. In spite of
the enormous jaws of the latter, the jaguar will leap towards the tail
of the creature, tear open its side, and devour it even before life is
extinct. Only two animals do not fear the jaguar; one is the great
ant-eater, which is defended from the monster's attacks by its thick
shaggy coat; the other is the little peccary. The latter, however, when
caught singly is quickly despatched. When collected in a herd the case
is very different. They then so fearlessly assail the jaguar with their
sharp tusks, that though it may kill a few of them, it is usually
pierced to death, or compelled to take to flight. We had good reason,
therefore, to be thankful that the jaguar had not found us busy at work
with our backs turned towards him; in which case he would probably have
killed one or both of us. He must already, as Tim observed, have had
his dinner, else he would not so readily have taken his departure. We
found, indeed, not far off, the remains of a deer on which he had been
feeding, several armadillos and a king-vulture being engaged in
finishing what he had left of the feast.

While Tim was at work, I kept watch in case another jaguar or any other
foe should approach. I regretted not having brought my bow and arrows,
and determined never to leave home again without them.

The tree was soon cut down, for we were obliged to choose those of small
size, which could be easily chopped through and split. As soon as it
was down, Tim smoothed off the upper surface, and then drew lines along
it to mark the divisions of the planks, scoring them deeply with his
axe, ready for the wedges. Sometimes a tree split from one end to the
other, and we quickly had a number of boards formed; which, however,
required seasoning before they could be used. This operation took place
more rapidly than in our northern climes; for by placing them in the
shade, though exposed to the air, they quickly dried.

Having cut a tree into planks, we each of us carried home a couple of
them. I gave a description of Tim's encounter with the jaguar. Of
course our friends congratulated us on our escape; and, taking warning,
they determined to be on the lookout lest the creature should think fit
to pay the settlement a visit.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN.

MARIAN'S FEARFUL DANGER--TIM'S WONDERFUL RIDE ON AN ALLIGATOR'S BACK--
MARIAN AND I RESCUED-