Slender as was this diet the boys felt much strengthened, and their spirits rose in a wonderful manner.
"We're bound to be found sooner or later," said Henry, "and it's strange if we can't live in the woods until then." "If we only had our guns and ammunition," said Paul, "we could get all the meat we wanted, and live as well as if we were at home." This was true, because in the untrodden forest the game was plentiful all about them, but guns and ammunition they did not have, and it was vain to wish for them.

They must obtain more solid food than wild plums and blackberries, if they would retain their strength, and both boys knew it.

Yet they saw no way and they continued wandering until they came to a creek.

They sat a while on its banks and looked down at the fish with which it was swarming, and which they could see distinctly in its clear waters.
"Oh, if we only had one of those fine fellows!" said Paul.
"Then why not have him ?" exclaimed Henry, a sudden flash appearing in his eye.
"Yes, why not ?" replied Paul with sarcasm.

"I suppose that all we have to do is to whistle and the finest of 'em will come right out here on the bank, and ask us to cook and eat 'em." "We haven't any hooks and lines now but we might make 'em," said Henry.
"Make 'em!" said Paul, and he looked in amazement at his comrade.
"Out of our clothes," replied Henry.
Then he proceeded to show what he meant and Paul, too, when he saw him begin, was quickly taken with the idea.