ylight, and be able to cook some of the lynx for breakfast, as
also a sufficient quantity to take with me.

For this object I was going along the edge of the wood, when suddenly a
large animal rushed out from a thick copse a short distance before me,
planting itself in a threatening attitude as if determined to dispute my
progress. It was scarcely twenty feet off, and I knew that in a moment
its fangs might be fixed in my throat.

My situation appeared desperate, for I felt sure that should I show the
least symptom of fear the creature would attack me. I prayed for the
courage and firmness I so much needed. Should I retreat, the monster
would to a certainty follow. Holding the bundle of sticks I had already
collected in front of me as a shield, I flourished my stick, shouting as
loud as my weak voice would permit.

The wolf appeared somewhat startled and retreated a few steps, still
keeping its piercing eyes fixed firmly on me. The creature's retreat,
though it was but for a short distance, encouraged me. I advanced. On
seeing this it set up a most fearful howl, which I concluded it did for
the purpose of collecting some of its fellows to assist it in its
meditated attack on me.

I redoubled my cries, shouting out, "Sandy! Pat! Pierre! Come along!"
with the idea that the wolf would suppose I had companions at hand, who
would come at my call. As I advanced it kept retreating, but still
continued its appalling howls.

It occurred to me that it was the wolf I had before seen, and that it
must have its lair in the neighbourhood. This was not a pleasant
thought, but still I hoped that if I could frighten it off I should not
be further molested.

The wolf continued howling and I shouting for nearly a quarter of an
hour. At length finding that no other wolves came to join it, and that
I was determined not to flinch, it turned round, and in a few seconds
was lost to view in the surrounding gloom.

I learnt an important lesson from the adventure. It showed me that by
an exhibition of courage and determination even enemies of far superior
force may be deterred from making an attack, and be put ignominiously to
flight. Having satisfied myself that the wolf had really gone off, I
returned to my hut, looking back, however, every instant to ascertain
whether or not it was following me. I found my horse still cropping the
grass. He welcomed me with a neigh as I approached, to show his
gratitude. It was a sign