was a great contrast to the strenuous times of the
past six days of absence.

"We got lost once," said George, "when we struck the river at least
eight or nine miles too far south. I tried to make out the direction by
the two stars you spoke about, but I am afraid there will be several
more lessons necessary before I can get it in my mind."

"Couldn't you see the moon?" asked the Professor.

"Yes, but that didn't help me any."

"Get the map we drew the other night, and we'll try and make it plainer.
Now, if you can imagine the moon making a silver streak along the
heavens, it would pass along such a route that the following fixed stars
would be in its path. Note them carefully, as follows: Hamel, Aldebaran,
Pollux, Regulus, Spica, Antares, Arkat, Fomelhaut, and Markab."

"But how can we distinguish one of the fixed stars from the others? That
is a matter which has always puzzled me."

"Because of the company it keeps. Isn't that like we judge people?"

"I don't understand what you mean."

"Each fixed star is set in the heavens with certain others stars
arranged about it in such a way that it cannot be mistaken."

Angel's antics now attracted the attention of the company. He had been
on the floor while the music was being performed, but disappeared
shortly afterwards. He had his gun, and dodged from one chair to the
next, and sighted his gun, and bounded away, as though attacking and
running from an imaginary enemy.

This exhibition was a perfect mimicry of the boys' attitude during the
previous week. The comical manner in which he fought and eluded the
enemy brought out roars of laughter, but this did not affect him in the
least; he sprang to the rafters, and began to chatter in imitation of
the way he had warned the boys, and then sprang down and hid behind a
chair.

But the acme of his exhibition was reached when he mounted the table and
simulated the rocking motion of the wagon crossing the stream. George
simply hugged him, and Angel joined in the laughter.

But the boys wanted to know about John and Chief. John was there to
welcome their return, and Chief came up soon after, and held out a
welcoming hand, as he had seen the others do. Of course, he had no idea
what the party went away for, nor did he comprehend the failure to bring
the boat back. His education had not yet advanced to such a state as
would have made an explanation of that kind understandable.

But John seemed to realize the story, and