cave in which they had killed the bear. It could only be reached by a
ladder, and would of course be inaccessible to the elephant. Once out
of their present dilemma, they might seek refuge there.

CHAPTER TWENTY TWO.

DRAWING THEIR DRINK.

The idea about the cave was a good one, and gave them some little
comfort in the midst of their tribulation.

Still, it was not much; for although they would be safe enough while in
the cavern, they could not accomplish anything there. The want of light
would hinder them from working at the ladders; and while cutting the
timber out of which to make them, and every hour that they might be
engaged upon them, they would be exposed to the attacks of their
implacable enemy.

The prospect was sufficiently discouraging--even with the knowledge that
the cave would offer them a safe asylum to which they could retreat
whenever pursued.

As the elephant remained comparatively tranquil for a length of time,
these thoughts of future operations had engaged their attention.
Confident in their present security, they were not troubled by the fear
of any immediate danger.

Very soon, however, this confidence began to forsake them. How long
were they going to be kept in the tree? That was a question that now
presented itself; and as the time passed, became a source of uneasiness.

Though none of them could answer this question, yet all could understand
that the siege promised to be a long one--perhaps much longer than that
which had so lately been raised: for the rogue, inspired by a rage
profound and implacable, exhibited in his sullen look a determination to
stand his ground for an indefinite period of time. Seeing this, our
adventurers once more became uneasy. Not only was their situation
irksome--from the fact of their having to sit astride slender branches--
but should the siege be continued, they would be subjected to that
danger peculiar to all people besieged--the danger of starvation. Even
at the outset all three were as hungry as wolves. They had eaten but a
very light breakfast, and nothing since: for they had not found time to
cook dinner. It was now late in the afternoon; and should the enemy
continue there all night, they would have to go to bed supperless. Ah!
to bed indeed. Perhaps there would be neither bed nor sleep that night:
for how could they slumber upon those hard branches? Should they lose
consciousness for a moment, they would drop off, and tumble do