A FOREST WALK. 149 



of the departing luminary, but in a few minutes the 

 dull gray light which rendered objects indistinct 

 beneath the shade of the forest crept gradually upwards. 



The hunters quickened their pace in order to avail 

 themselves of the twilight in their walk towards camp, 

 but darkness enveloped them before they reached it. 

 As they stumbled along over roots and through the 

 tangled brushwood, the various nocturnal noises of the 

 forest added to the wildness of the scene. Owls hooted 

 dismally as they swept the glades on noiseless wing 

 in search of mice or squirrels. The great eagle-owl 

 uttered his maniac screams, while from the distance 

 were heard the sharp bark of the fox, and the wild 

 yell of the lucifee as it bounded in pursuit of its prey. 



At length the hunters reached their camp. The fire 

 was out, but a search among the ashes discovered some 

 embers, with the aid of which it was speedily rekindled. 

 Gaultier was cook of the expedition, and to his charge 

 the squirrels were now consigned, Jake and Pierre 

 having first helped to skin them. 



Under the clever manipulation of the young cook 

 these succulent little animals soon reappeared in the 

 shape of a savoury pie, which his comrades voted 

 excellent ; and in proof of their sincerity they helped 

 themselves to the appetizing mess again and again. 



The night was dry and balmy, so that the hunters 

 could repose comfortably in the open air on beds of 

 pine tops ; and as they lounged round the cheerful fire, 

 well satisfied with themselves and with all the world, 



