[Illustration]
We reached the shore, however, coasted the lake for a while, and got
round to the sheltered side. There we gave up our horses, which we never
saw again.
We plunged down among the rushes, by the edge of the water, and laid
ourselves down flat, to await the chance of escaping from being burned
or devoured. The water greatly refreshed us, and we enjoyed the
coolness.
On went the fire, rushing and crashing through the woods. Such a morning
may we never again see! The heavens themselves, I thought, were
frightened.
All above us was a bright, red glare, mingled with, dark, threatening
clouds and black smoke, rolling and sweeping away in the distance.
Our bodies were cool enough, but our heads were scorching; and the
child, who now seemed to understand the matter, cried so as nearly to
break our hearts.
The day passed on, and we became hungry. Many wild beasts came plunging
into the water beside us, and others swam across to our side, and stood
still. Although faint and weary, I managed to shoot a porcupine, and we
all tasted its flesh.
The night passed, I cannot tell you how.
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