and the abodes of any other creatures likely to
disturb them. A larger number of sentries than usual were also posted
round the camp and directed to keep a vigilant watch, while one of the
gigs under charge of Higson, with Needham as coxswain, was sent on some
way ahead to keep a lookout for the enemy, should they take it into
their heads to descend the stream, and make a night attack on the camp.

A pleasant supper was made on shore, though singing and loud talking
were forbidden, lest any stragglers from the fort might hear them and
give notice of their approach. The thick forest, however, effectually
screened their fires, and the smoke could not be seen at night.

Mr Wilmot spoke hopefully of the work before them. He had little doubt
that the Nicaraguan commander would yield immediately he saw the force
brought against him, though he probably at present did not believe that
such heavy boats as theirs could be forced up the stream. Mr Halliday
was more silent than was his wont. Some of his friends inquired what
was the matter. "I have felt the heat very great during the day," he
answered; "but I dare say that when our work is accomplished, and we are
pulling down the stream, I shall recover my spirits."

Mr Wilmot had kindly invited the three midshipmen to take up their
quarters on board his boat, having fitted up a place amidships for them;
here, at all events, they might be free from the ants; and as to the
mosquitoes, they were nearly inured to them.

At an earlier hour than usual all hands not on the watch went to sleep,
with the exception of those in Mr Wilmot's boat. He and his friend sat
up some time talking together, but what they said neither Tom nor his
companions could hear, as they themselves were soon lulled to sleep by
the loud rushing of the strong current which swept by the boat.

Tom was suddenly awakened by a loud cry and an exclamation from Mr
Wilmot, "Where is Halliday?" and the next instant he exclaimed, "Good
heavens! he is overboard! I must save him!" and before he could have
had time for thought, he himself plunged into the boiling waters, and
swam towards his friend, who was being carried rapidly down by the
current. The midshipmen being aroused, Tom, who saw what had happened,
was about to plunge into the stream to try and assist the consul, when
Gordon, more prudent, held him back, exclaiming, "You will be drowned,
my dear fellow, if you do." Tom had happily thus more time than