APPROACHING THE HIPPOPOTAMUS. 



4gpr 



to launch the canoes, should the attack prove successful. 

 The bustle and noise caused by these preparations gradually 

 subside. Conversation is carried on in a whisper, and every 

 one is on the qui vive. The snorting and plunging become 

 every moment more distinct ; but a bend in the stream still 

 hides the animals from view. The angle being passed, sev- 

 eral dark objects are seen floating listlessly on the water, look- 

 ing more like the crests of sunken rocks than living creatures. 

 Ever and anon, one or other of the shapeless masses is sub- 

 merged, but soon again' makes its appearance on the surface. 

 On, on glides the raft with its sable crew, who are now 

 worked up to the highest state of excitement. At last the 

 raft is in the midst of the herd, who appear quite unconscious 

 of danger. Presently one of the animals is in immediate 

 contact with the raft. Now is the critical moment. The 

 foremost harpooner raises himself to his full height to give 



THE BEED-EAFT AXP IIARPOOXEK8. 



