Thus continuing until the floor of the tent was covered he had a soft, fragrant springy bed, quite as soft and comfortable as a mattress, and upon this he and Jamie spread the sleeping-bags.
In the meantime Doctor Joe and Andy had collected an ample supply of dry wood for the evening, and when, presently, David and Jamie joined them, a cheerful fire was blazing and already an appetizing odour was rising from the stew kettle.
When the stew and some tender dumplings were done Doctor Joe lifted the kettle from the fire, and while he filled each plate with a liberal portion, and Andy poured tea, David put fresh wood upon the fire, for the evening had grown cold and frosty with the setting sun.
The blazing fire was cheerful indeed as they settled themselves upon the seat of boughs and proceeded to enjoy their supper.
"Um-m-m!" exclaimed Andy.

"You knows how to cook wonderful fine, Doctor!" "'Tis _wonderful_ fine stew!" seconded David.
"Not half bad," admitted Doctor Joe, "but Andy had as much to do with it as I, and the porcupine had a good deal to do with it.

It was young and fat, and it's tender." There is no pleasanter hour for the camper or voyageur than the evening hour by a blazing camp fire.

There is no sweeter odour than that of the damp forest mingled with the smell of burning wood.

Beyond the narrow circle of light a black wall rises, and behind the wall lies the wilderness with its unfathomed mysteries.