The Indians, who were unable to make out what Ned was doing, watched these proceedings with great attention.

When a little smoke began to curl up from the heated wood they understood at once, and shouted with wonder.

In a few minutes sparks began to fly from the stick, and as these fell on the dried fungus they rapidly spread.

Tom knelt down and blew gently upon them, adding a few dried leaves, and in another minute a bright flame sprang up.
The natives were delighted.

They had now means of making fire, and could in future enjoy warmth and cooked food, and their gratitude to the lads was unbounded.