A really big place, that." And he set himself to telling of the great American cities and their magnificence, of the life filled with case and plenty, abounding in refinements beyond imagination, which is the portion of the well paid artisan.
In silence they listened to his words.

Framed in the open door-way the last crimson of the sky, fading to Paler tints, rose above the vague masses of the forest,-a column resting upon its base.

The Mosquitos began to arrive in their legions, and the humming of innumerable wings filled the low clearing with continuous sound.
"Telesphore," directed the father, "make us a smudge.

Take the old tin pail." Telesphore covered the bottom of the leaky vessel with earth, filling it then with dry chips and twigs which he set ablaze.
When the flame was leaping up brightly he returned with an armful of herbs and leaves and smothered it; the volume of stinging smoke which ascended was carried by the wind into the house and drove out the countless horde.

At length they were at peace, and with sighs of relief could desist from the warfare.