know you that?" inquired Howland who helped him.

"By this undergrowth that we are gathering, lad. The Indians burn it off
year by year in the haunts of the deer, so that they may course there
freely, but here thou seest are plenty of old and dry twigs."

"The better for our fire," returned Howland philosophically, not so much
interested at that moment in the habits of Indians as in providing for
Elizabeth Tilley's father.

The more cautious brethren in the pinnace meantime had anchored and made
things as snug as possible on board, but as the fire blazed up, and one
after another on shore showed signs of its genial influence, the dangers
of abandoning the boat grew less and less formidable, until Standish,
rubbing his hands and turning to toast the other side of his person,
cried exultingly,--

"Aha, I am warm! I have seen the fire!"

"So have I seen it, and here goes to feel it!" cried Coppin jumping as
far toward land as he could, and splashing the rest of the way, for he
had sulkily remained on board when Clarke leaped ashore and claimed the
island.

"Methinks the example is good if the manner be uncourteous," said
Winslow wistfully.

"Ay," replied Carver a little annoyed by Coppin's action, although he
claimed no authority over the rough fellow. "I was just about to say
that it were as well that we landed, taking our arms with us and
standing on our guard, for truly we are perishing here."

The permission calmly waited for was thankfully received, and in a few
moments the whole party was gathered about the now jubilant fire which,
fed with cedar logs, sent up clouds of perfumed smoke to float like
incense among the crests of the shivering parent trees.

The next morning broke calm and 'sunshining,' and the Pilgrims, renewing
their fire, offered a solemn prayer of thanksgiving and confidence, and
sat down to breakfast.

After this came an exploration, which showed the small size and compact
nature of the island, as well as its total lack of inhabitants. This
tour was followed by an informal council about the fire, wherein it was
resolved to remain during the day, which was Saturday, upon the island,
drying and cleaning their weapons, rigging a temporary mast for the
shallop, baling and drying her, and restoring by rest and comfort some
measure of strength to the feebler members of the party. Also, and this
not the least consideration, the next day being Sunday, they would thus
be prepared to observe it wi