every variety of soft vegetable
substances; but it also devours carrion and flesh of all sorts, as well
as worms, lizards, ants, and birds which build their nests on the
ground. In some parts of the continent the natives cook it in its
shell, and esteem it a great delicacy."

Whilst our friend was giving us this account, the armadillo, suddenly
starting forward, ran off at a great rate into the forest, True made
chase, but I called him back, and he came willingly, apparently
convinced that he should be unable to overtake the creature, or
overpower it if he did.

We were once more proceeding on our way. The day was drawing to a
close, and yet we had not overtaken our companions. "You are scarcely
aware of the distance you were from the right road," observed the
recluse. "When once a person gets from the direct path, he knows not
whither he may wander. It may be a lesson to you. I have learned it
from bitter experience." He sighed deeply as he spoke. At length we
saw the bright glare of a fire between the trees. "You will find your
friends there," said the recluse, "and, directed by that, can now go
on."

"But surely you are going with us to the camp?" said John.

"No; I shall seek a resting-place in the forest," he answered. "I am
too much accustomed to solitude to object to be alone, even though I
have no sheltering roof over my head. Farewell! I know not whether we
shall meet again, but I would once more give you the assurance that I do
not forget that you were the means of saving my life; and yet I know not
why I should set value upon it."

In vain John and I entreated him to come on. Not another step further
would he advance; and he cut us short by turning hastily round and
stalking off into the depths of the forest, while we hurried on towards
the camp.

"Oh, there they are! there they are!" exclaimed Ellen, running forward
to meet us as we appeared. "I have been so anxious about you, and so
has Arthur! Domingos told us he was sure you would come up soon, but I
could not help dreading that some accident had happened."

We had to confess that we had lost our way, and that, had it not been
for the stranger, we should still be wandering in the forest.

"And why would he not come to the camp?" she asked. "Arthur is longing
to see him again. Duppo has been telling him of the way in which he
rescued him from the anaconda. I was at last obliged to tell him what
occurred."

Arthur now came up.