least. The dense
wood was on every side. The inclination of the ground was so slight as
to give no indication whether they had reached the summit of the
tableland, or were still ascending to a higher level.

In estimating the distance traveled in the four days it could not be
possible that they were over fifty miles from the Cataract. To add to
their perplexities, Jack began to walk with a perceptible limp. The
wound in the shoulder was inflamed, and a rest was necessary.

In this emergency a council was called, and the Professor suggested that
some of the party should conduct an exploring expedition on foot to the
west, going not to exceed five miles, and then return. But as it was too
near night to make the attempt at once, it was agreed that an early
start should be made in the morning.

The question now arose, who should go. Neither made a suggestion until
Harry ventured this opinion: "I am perfectly willing to take John with
me. I am sure he can be trusted. It will be imposing too much of a
burden on you," said he, looking at the Professor, "and I am active and
strong enough to stand the trip."

This suggestion was acted on, and early in the morning Harry took a
quantity of ammunition, and the Professor gave John a similar supply and
a couple of the guns, one of which was strapped to his back, similar to
the manner in which Harry was equipped. The attention of John was then
directed to the forest in the west, and as Harry moved away he followed
with a comprehensive glance that gave all of them the greatest relief.
Prior to their departure, the yak's wound was examined, and John saw
this as well, so that from all indications they would have no reason to
have fears on his account.

As usual, their bolos were taken along, and at intervals the trees were
blazed on both sides, this action being performed by John with a
regularity and precision that astonished Harry.

Traveling under those conditions was not conducive to speed, but they
were now trying to find what lay beyond them, and to learn, if possible,
how much farther the dense growth existed beyond them. They went on for
three hours or more, and still no change, and they stopped to rest.

Imagine yourself surrounded by these conditions. A companion who could
not talk, and who was, in all probability, demented, the eternal
silence, except as it would be occasionally startled into life by some
living thing; unable to even indicate his thoughts, or to consult