He and Paul were unarmed, but they had something as effective as guns against panthers and that was the great bonfire which still roared and blazed near them.

He was glad now for a new reason that they had built it high, because the panther's cry was so uncanny and sent such a chill down one's back.

He looked at Paul, but his comrade still slept soundly, a peaceful smile showing on his face.

He remembered the words of Ross that no wild animal would trouble man if man did not trouble him, and, rolling a little nearer to Paul, he shut his eyes and sought sleep.
But sleep would not come, and presently he heard the cry of the panther again but much nearer.

He was lying with his ear to the ground.