Again Henry bethought him of firing the musket to give them a signal.
But even if heard, it might not have this effect. They knew that he was
able to hold and handle the great gun, and might think some bird or
animal had come near and tempted him to take a shot at it.

On the other hand, the report would strike upon the ears of the mias,
might distract it from the triumph in which it was indulging, and bring
it to the spot where they were standing. Then, with an empty gun in his
hand, what defence could the youth make, either for himself or for his
sister?

To fire the gun would never do. Better leave the trigger unpulled, and
trust to Providence for protection.

And then, as the brave boy reflected on the many dangers through which
they had passed, and how they had always been delivered by some
fortunate interposition, he knew it must be the hand of Providence, and
was content to rely upon it again.

He said so to his little sister, whispering consolation, as with one
hand he drew her close to him, the other resting upon the musket. And
Helen whispered back a pious response, as she nestled upon the breast of
her brother.

A moment more, and the faith of both was submitted to a severe trial.

The red gorilla, after gloating for a long time over the agonised
contortions of its disabled enemy, seemed at length satisfied that it
was disabled to death, and facing toward the forest, showed signs of an
intention to take its departure from the spot.

Now came the crisis for Henry and Helen. Which way would the animal
take?

They had not time to exchange question and answer--scarce time even to
shape them in their thoughts--when they saw the red satyr turn to the
tree behind which they were standing, and come directly toward them.

CHAPTER TWENTY NINE.

A CAPTIVE CARRIED ALOFT.

"We are lost!" were the words that rushed from Henry Redwood's lips.
They came involuntarily; for, as soon as said, he regretted them, seeing
how much they added to the alarm of his sister. It was a crisis in
which she needed rather to be inspired to confidence by words of
encouragement.

They were said, however, and he could not recall them. He had no time
to speak of anything, or to think of what course they should now pursue.
Coming straight toward the tree with an awkward, shambling, but speedy
gait withal, the monster would soon reach the spot where they stood.
Its movements showed it to be in a state of excitement--the na