344 THE AD VENTURES OF 



ed Lucien the circular hole on the seed which has given to 

 the plant its family name (Portulacce). 



Some maize-cakes and a salad formed our frugal break- 

 fast, which was discussed on the edge of the stream. Lu- 

 cien especially seemed to enjoy it, for I was indeed obliged 

 to check him, the appetizing flavor of the salad had so 

 sharpened his appetite. 



When we had finished our meal, Sumichrast tried to 

 climb the steep bank ; but the ground gave way under his 

 feet, and two or three times he fell. I left Lucien to man- 

 age for himself, for his falls were not likely to be danger- 

 ous. As he was much less heavy than we were, he suc- 

 ceeded in reaching the level of the plain first, and with 

 very little trouble, when he amused himself by laughing 

 disrespectfully at our efforts. 



"You had better take care of your ears," cried my friend, 

 addressing Lucien ; " if I could reach you I would use them 

 to hang on by." 



In vain we tried to find a more accessible path. At last, 

 getting rid of my gun and game-bag, I accomplished the 

 ascent. 



" That's all very well !" exclaimed Sumichrast, fatigued 

 and cramped with his exertions ; "but how am I to reach 

 you, now that I have two guns and two bags to carry ?" 



" "Wait a bit !" cried Lucien ; and, running down the 

 slope, he soon disappeared. 



I heard him cutting at something with his machete; 

 soon after he came up again, carrying a long stem of cane. 



" Now we'll try and fish up M. Sumichrast," said he. 



Sitting down on the bank, I held out the rod to my com- 

 panion, who at once seized it, and, thus supported, gradual- 

 ly managed to bring up all our hunting-gear, and ultimately 

 himself, when, instead of pulling " Master Sunbeam's " ears, 

 he gave him a kiss as a reward for his ingenious idea. 



