Powell had started for a climb of investigation and looking down on the camp he perceived a sudden tremendous activity without being able for some moments to discover the cause.

So rapidly did the fire spread that there was no escape except by the boats.

Some had their clothing burned and their hair singed, while Bradley even had his ears scorched.

The cook in his haste stumbled with his arms full of culinary utensils, and the load disappeared beneath the waters, ever on the alert to swallow up man, boat, or beast.

Just below the camp was a rapid and, casting off, they were forced to run this without stopping to examine it.