ture.
The end of the upper wings terminated in a fine point, just as is the
case with the leaves of many tropical shrubs. The lower wings were more
obtuse, and lengthened out into a short thin tail. Between these two
points ran a dark curved line, representing the mid rib of a leaf, while
the other marks were radiated exactly like the lateral fans of leaves;
indeed, the wings of the creature when closed were so like a leaf, that
it was scarcely possible to distinguish it from those amidst which it
had pitched.

As we rose higher and higher in this mountainous region towards which we
were bending our steps, gigantic ferns became more numerous. Among them
were most curious pitcher-plants. They took the form of half-climbing
shrubs, their pitchers, of various sizes and forms, hanging in numbers
from their leaves. Every ridge was now crowned with gigantic ferns,
which reminded us of the descriptions of the antediluvian world, when
ferns appear to have been the chief vegetation which covered the surface
of the globe.--I will not mention our dinner.

It was now time to encamp for the night. Our first care was to make
arrangements for the accommodation of the young ladies. We had an
abundance of materials at hand, and soon cut down branches and leaves
sufficient to make a very comfortable bower in which they might rest. A
fire was then lighted, and similar bowers, though of less careful
construction, were erected for the rest of the party. Our uncle
arranged that one of the party should remain on watch.

"I cannot tell what sort of creatures inhabit these wilds," he observed;
"but I have every reason to believe that many of those that range over
Borneo and Sumatra are to be found here. They have probably been
prevented coming to my territory by the river which separates it from
the rest of the island; but I have seen traces of the rhinoceros, and
trees broken down in a way elephants alone could accomplish. Wild boars
I have shot; and tigers and huge serpents, I have reason to believe, are
to be found in some parts of the island."

"How delightful!" I exclaimed; but then I recollected the danger to
which Emily and Grace might be exposed. I said something to that
effect.

"We must keep a careful watch," he answered; "and in truth I believe
that generally wild animals are more afraid of man than man need he of
them, if he is on his guard."

I did not wish to frighten the girls, and therefore did not talk to th