Fearing it might be an encampment of Indians, Basil galloped forward; and, alighting from his horse, intercepted the dog.

A halt was made to determine what was best to be done.

At that moment the fire blazed up, and a spotted object was seen near it.

Hurrah! It was Francois' mustang! Basil and Lucien now advanced rapidly; and, to their great joy, beheld Francois sitting by the fire holding something over the blaze.

The next moment the brothers were in each other's arms, all three weeping with joy as they embraced! Francois soon related his adventures.