evening. It was full eleven
o'clock ere the gorgeous colours all died away in the west and the stars
one by one came out in their quiet beauty and decked as with diamonds
that peerless northern sky. After a time the auroras flashed and blazed
in quiet beauty. To-night they seemed not as warriors bent on carnage,
but as troops of lovers tripping in joyous unison to some sweet strains
of music unheard by mortal ears.

Amid such surroundings sat and talked this happy group. It was, they
well knew, their last evening together, and so amid its joyousness there
was a tinge of sorrow and regret. As the evening darkened into night
they had all gathered near the great brilliant camp fire, which is
always welcome and agreeable even in June nights, no matter how warm has
been the day.

After the delightful events and incidents of the past had been referred
to and discussed by all, the conversation turned to the many dangers
that had come to some of them, and their narrow escapes. Gratitude to
God for their many marvellous deliverances was the uppermost feeling in
their hearts. Mr Hurlburt and Mr Ross spoke most impressively on this
wonderful providential care that had been over them.

The Indians, except those whose duty it was to see to the welfare of
their masters and mistresses, were all now asleep. Wrapped up each in
his blanket, they lay around on the rocks in picturesque places.

During the evening all the other boats had arrived from Norway House,
and so it was arranged that if the wind continued favourable they would
make an early start in the morning. When Mr Ross felt that it was time
to break up the delightful circle he asked Mr Hurlburt to take charge
of the devotional service. Always hallowed and precious were these
sacred hours of worship in the forest or on the shores, and this last
one was not less suggestive and profitable. First from memory they all
repeated the one-hundred-and-third psalm, then they sang the sweet hymn,
"Abide with me," and at its close Mrs Ross's sweet voice struck up,
"Blest be the tie that binds." Then Mr Hurlburt, the devoted
missionary, led in prayer. Heaven seemed very near as the good man
talked with God and commended Frank, Alec, and Sam to his loving,
omnipotent care during the long, varied journey before them.

"Say good-bye as well as good night," said Mr Ross; "for we may be off
in the morning without disturbing those who remain behind."

So the tender farewells w