First they cleared a circle about twenty feet in diameter, with an outer ring of large trees, and, using the trunks as posts, built a fence with the saplings and young trees.

A hole was dug in the soft ground for the fireplace, and another fence built round to screen the glare of the fire.

Next their waterproof sheets were arranged, the sheet of canvas stretched overhead, and, when all was shipshape, the three white members of the party went through a course of massage, which prepared them for the one good meal of the day.

Then they overhauled their clothing, repaired any tears, oiled the rifles, and entered up the log-books.

There was always something to do, and according to the man-of-war discipline observed, every man had to do his share of work--a rule which gave the mind employment, and kept it from dwelling on the monotony and the depressing silence of the woods.