would be
covered with insects which were rudely shaken from the boughs; at
another some branch beneath which they were passing would threaten to
sweep the canvas cabin out of the boat; and once it was Joe, whose
flannel was caught by a snaggy end and hung there with the boat passing
from under him till a chorus of cries made the stalwart boatman cease
his efforts and look back at the mischief he was causing as he hauled.

But, in spite of all difficulties, the boat was slowly drawn over the
ground lost in the wild race downward, till at last the lake was
reached, and a few sturdy efforts sufficed to drag it once more into
still water.

"Once is enough for a job like that, Master Rob," said Shaddy, as he
wiped his dripping brow with the back of his hand.

"It was hard work," replied Rob.

"Ay, 'twas; and if you wouldn't mind saying you were so hungry you
didn't know what to do, it would be doing us all a kindness, and make
Mr Brazier think about meat instead of vegetables."

He gave his head a nod sidewise at Brazier's back, for as the men rested
under the shade of a tree the naturalist was busy hauling down some
lovely clusters of blossoms from overhead.

"You mean you want some dinner, Shaddy?"

"That's it, sir. This here engine will soon stop working if you don't
put on more coal."

"I'll give him a hint," said Rob, laughing; and he did, the result being
that Brazier gave the word for the men to row right across toward the
clearing--a task they eagerly commenced in spite of the heat and the
sturdy effort required to force a way through the dense covering of
broad green leaves. They had the river to cross on their way, and as
the clear stream was neared a long way above its exit from the lake the
men, as if moved by one impulse, ceased rowing, and paused to take their
breath before making a sturdy effort to cross it without losing ground.

It was a necessary precaution, for the moment the bows of the boat
issued from among the dense growth the stem was pressed heavily
downward, and the opposite side of the stream was reached after quite a
sharp fight. Then the long, steady pull was commenced again, and, with
the leaves brushing against the side, they forced their way onward till
the clearing came in view.

The faint curl of bluish smoke encouraged the men to fresh efforts, all
thinking of broiled deer meat and a fragrant cup of coffee, both of
which afforded grateful refreshment soon after they touched t