It was merely the trunk of a tree, that lay with the base on the side where he stood, while the top rested on the other bank.

Whoever had felled the tree had trimmed the trunk of its branches from base to top--the result being more ornamental than useful, for the protuberances would have served to help the footing of a passenger.

The trunk in the middle was no more than six inches in diameter, and being a little worn by the shoes that had trod its length, the footing was anything but secure.

With the sprinkling of snow it was more treacherous than ever.
"Must I cross _that_ ?" Harvey said aloud, with a feeling akin to dismay.
"You can do so or swim, whichever you choose." These words were spoken by a man standing on the other side, and who was about to step on the support, when he paused on seeing another on the point of doing the same from the opposite bank.

In the dim light, Harvey saw him only indistinctly, but judged that he himself was recognized by the other.
"I suppose it's safe enough for those accustomed to it," said Harvey in reply, "but I prefer some other means; do you intend to use it ?" "That I do; I want no better; if you are afraid, get out of the way, for I am late." Harvey moved to the right, and watched the other, who stepped upon the support and walked over with as much certainty as if treading a pavement on the street.
Harvey looked closely, and as the fellow came toward him, he recognized him as one of his former employes.