we could over the fallen trees and the brush heaps, which
lay like so many articles placed on purpose to keep up the terrific
fires that advanced with a broad front upon us.

By this time we were suffering greatly from the effects of the heat, and
we were afraid that our horses would be overcome and drop down at any
moment.

A singular kind of breeze was passing over our heads, and the glare of
the burning trees shone more brightly than the daylight. I was sensible
of a slight faintness, and my wife looked pale.

The heat had produced such a flush in the child's face that, when she
turned toward either of us, our grief and anxiety were greatly
increased.

* * * * *

Directions for Reading.--What tone of voice should be used in reading
the lesson?

Should the rate of reading be slow or rapid?

Point out two paragraphs requiring a somewhat different rate.

Should the feelings expressed in the lesson be rendered in a quiet or
loud tone?

Different inflections are sometimes used, simply to give variety to the
reading and not for emphasis.

In the first paragraph, mark _inflection_ of _night, day, horses,
cattle, woods, us_.

* * * * *

LESSON XLIII.

de voured', _eaten up greedily, as by wild animals_.

por'cu pine, _a kind of animal_.

smold'der ing, _burning slowly; smoking_.

in suf'fer a ble, _not to be borne_.

shift'ed, _moved about; changed position_.

sti'fling, _stopping the breath_.

dismal, _gloomy; cheerless_.

un grate'ful, _not thankful_.

rem'e died, _relieved; cured_.

* * * * *

A FOREST ON FIRE.

PART II.

Ten miles are soon gone over on swift horses; but yet, when we reached
the borders of the lake we were quite exhausted, and our hearts failed
us. The heat of the smoke was insufferable, and sheets of blazing fire
flew over us in a manner beyond belief.

[Illustration]

We reached the shore, however, coasted the lake for a while, and got
round to the sheltered side. There we gave up our horses, which we never
saw again.

We plunged down among the rushes, by the edge of the water, and laid
ourselves down flat, to await the chance of escaping from being burned
or devoured. The water greatly refreshed us, and we enjoyed the
coolness.

On went the fire, rushing and crashing through the woods. Such a morning
may we never again see! The heavens themselve