und, but a solid cloud, before which everything gave way, while some
great flail-like object rapidly beat down plant and shrub.

All shrank away, and, as if moved by one impulse, took refuge behind the
roaring fire, feeling, as they did, that their dangerous visitor would
not attempt to pass that in making an attack upon those sheltered by so
menacing an outwork.

There was something terribly appalling in the struggles of the silent
monster, as it writhed and twisted itself into knots; then unfolded with
the rapidity of lightning, and waving its tail in the air, again beat
down the bushes and luxuriant growth around.

That it was fearfully wounded was evident, for after a few moments all
could plainly see that it was actuated by a blind fury, and in its agony
vented its rage upon everything around. And as it continued its
struggles, moment by moment it approached nearer to the blazing fire,
till all stood waiting in horror for the moment when one of its folds
would touch the burning embers and the struggles come to a frightful
end.

But all at once the writhings ceased, and the reptile lay undulating and
heaving gently among the dense beaten-down growth.

"Stop!" said Brazier sharply, as the guide moved; "what are you going to
do?"

"Put him out of his misery," replied Shaddy, quietly. "Hi! you there:
give me the axe."

"No," said Brazier, firmly, "it is too risky a task; you shall not
attempt it."

Shaddy uttered a low growl, like some thwarted animal, and said, in an
ill-used tone,--

"Why, I could fetch his head off with one good chop, and--"

"Look, look!" cried Joe. "Mind! Take care!"

"Yes," shouted Rob; "it's coming round this way."

Neither could see the reptile; but the swaying herbage and the rustling,
crackling sound showed that it was in rapid motion.

"Nay," growled Shaddy, "he ain't coming this way--only
right-about-facing. It is his nature to; he's going to make for the
water. That's what those things do: get down to the bottom and lie
there, to be out o' danger. Look, Mr Rob, sir; you can see now what a
length he is. One part's going one way, and the t'other part t'other
way. Now he's turned the corner, and going straight for the river."

With Shaddy's words to guide them, they could easily make out what was
taking place, as the reptile now made for the place of refuge already
sought by its companion.

Just then Brazier cocked his piece--_click, click_--and took a few steps
f