come across the tribe, and which would by this time be materially
reinforced.

This seemed the part of wisdom, and the work of getting out the raft
timbers was vigorously proceeded with, and within an hour the yaks were
driven into the water, and the wagon floated.

The wagon had hardly left the shore before Ralph cried out: "See the
devils coming. They reached the clearing, but out of gunshot, and the
boys smiled at their discomfiture, and when the opposite bank was
reached the boys halted the wagon, removed the logs, and sat down to
witness the chagrin of the natives.

"I wonder what they think of themselves by this time," said Ralph as he
heartily laughed.

The savages had been reinforced, as was apparent, for more than thirty
were plainly visible, and their tactics in following up the wagon was
now apparent.

"Let us give them another little shock." All eyes were now on Harry, as
he continued: "I suggest that we get into the wagon and move into the
interior, hiding the wagon in a safe place beyond, and then return to
this mass of brush here, where we will be entirely concealed. As this is
not more than thirty feet from shore we will be in good position to
watch the crossing and attack them if they attempt to venture across."

The plan was adopted with alacrity, and seating themselves in the
vehicle, they waved a salute to the party and started off as fast as the
team could be urged on.

Instantly there was commotion in the ranks of their enemies. They rushed
down to the bank, and engaged in an animated conversation.

The boys carefully crawled back to the brush, and witnessed the evident
attempt to decide on a course to pursue.

"Do you think they will cross?"

"I wish they would try it," answered Ralph. "Oh, wouldn't that give us a
chance at them!"

"I do believe they are going to try it."

Two of the warriors started for the water, and plunged in, and the boys
looked at each other in surprise.

"Ralph, do you think all of those fellows will try it?"

"No, indeed; those fellows don't like water, and if our experience in
crossing the river, when they took us back with them, is any indication,
they have very few who can swim."

"But the difficulty is that they can raft across."

"That is just the reason why I thought a little surprise of this kind
might make them think better of it, and not try it."

"You must remember," answered Tom, "they live on this side of the river,
and they are bound to