He had killed his turkey, and then lost himself; but instead of going back upon his own trail, as Basil had done, he had wandered about until night-fall, at intervals shouting and firing his gun.

At times his spirit failed him; and he rode for long stretches without touching the bridle, or in any way guiding his horse.

Wearied at length, he dismounted, and tied the animal to a tree.

It was night when he did so; and feeling cold and hungry, he took courage and kindled a fire.

Fortunately the gobbler still hung from the cantle of his saddle; and he had just singed, and was roasting it over the fire, when so agreeably interrupted by the approach of his brothers.