number of barrels of gunpowder for the different trading posts. Large
quantities of this dangerous material are required for the Indians all
over the country. The company is very particular in its transportation,
and only the most experienced men are allowed to have charge of the
powder boat.

When the brigade reached Robinson's Portage, which is a long one, some
men who had charge of the powder carefully rolled or dragged the barrels
across the portage, which has over its whole length a fairly good forest
road. The rest of the men, with their carrying straps, conveyed, as
usual, the many "pieces," and piled them close to the landing stage.
Three boatloads of supplies, as well as the cargo of gunpowder, had been
taken across and piled up ready for reshipment. Before bringing over
the other cargoes and dragging the great boats, which were as usual to
be dragged overland by the united strength of all the men, it was
resolved to have dinner at the end of the portage where they had landed,
and then go on with their work. Wood was gathered and a fire was
kindled and dinner was prepared.

While the men were dining it was noticed that the fire had increased,
and had at length reached in the dry grass the place where the powder
kegs had been placed when they had been taken out of the boats, and from
which spot they had been carried to the other end of the portage. Soon
the Indians and boys were interested in seeing a fuselike running of
fire spluttering and flashing on the trail. On and on along the road it
sped, until at length it disappeared over the hill leading to the other
end of the portage, where the barrels of powder and bales of goods were
now piled. For a moment or two the men continued their dinners; then
suddenly there was a report so loud and so deafening that those who were
standing were nearly thrown to the ground, and all were so shaken that
it seemed as though a small earthquake had occurred.

In an instant the cause was well surmised, and away they hurried as
rapidly as possible to the other end of the portage. A strange sight,
indeed, met their gaze. Some of the trees were badly shattered, and the
parts of those left standing, instead of being covered with green
foliage, were well decorated with coloured calicoes and ribbons,
tattered blankets, men's clothing, and many other things. The well
piled up bundles and pieces had disappeared, and the contents seemed to
be anywhere within the radius of