ken off
when we took it out to haul in the supplies. That being the case the
boat, when it is loaded in, upside down, will make a splendid top for
you for camping purposes."

"How long will it take to make the trip?" inquired Tom.

"Not to exceed five or six days, because we know every step of the way,
and we can push along pretty lively."

The start was not made until about ten o'clock, and Angel was on hand
with his inevitable gun. They did not forget the usual accompaniments of
such trips, namely, guns and ammunition, together with the spears and
bolos.

"This is certainly a jolly lark," sang out Ralph, as they neared the
forest. He and Tom had fully recovered from their weakened condition,
and were able to take their part in any of the work which was necessary.

"Which way shall we take?" asked George.

"The road directly through the forest, for the reason it is much better
than the route near the sea."

The four young spirits made wonderful progress toward the goal, as they
had a light load, and every minute seemed to be precious. What hunting
was done was on the route itself, and they had mutually agreed that
there should not be any wandering on the part of either.

The first night the camp was made on the banks of the Cataract, well
within the woods, and not far from the scene of their first exploits
with the two bears.

"I wish we could come across more of the same kinds of bears that we met
in these woods," said George.

"But the forests south of South River are the places for the animals.
Didn't George tell you about our hunting there?"

"No," answered Ralph; "but I want to go there when we get back."

During the first night Angel was restless, as usual in the woods at the
merest sound, and George tried to find out the cause of the uneasiness.

"Wasn't it near here that the wildcat attacked us?" asked George.

"I believe you are right. Possibly he has scented another one."

"Suppose we take a peep out," Ralph whispered; and taking their guns,
they stole down from the wagon.

They silently stood by the wagon, peering around in the darkness.

"They will be up in the trees," said Harry. "Wait--I see something; look
up to the right, a little to the left of the opening through to the
sky."

"Two balls of fire could be distinctly noticed.

"That is one of them, if it isn't something larger. What shall we do?"

"Ralph, you and I will aim and fire at it, and if it makes a dive for us
George an