162 OUT TO 'PROSPECT/ 



that sufficient space intervened between us to pre- 

 vent these astute individuals noticing the trifling 

 glare that would result from our diminutive flame, we 

 lighted a fire, and soon had the wherewith to com- 

 mence cooking. 



From our horses being restless all night, we did 

 not enjoy much sleep. Twice I had to go to them, 

 to prevent their breaking away ; but this long night, 

 like others, came to an end. All, however, were so 

 little refreshed at its termination, that we determined 

 to remain where we were for twenty-four hours longer. 

 After our morning meal, ( the old man/ rifle in hand, 

 went out ' to prospect/ as he called it, for Indians. As 

 I had various little duties to perform, such as washing 

 and mending my apparel, I remained to keep camp. 



When my companion aga|hi joined me, he was in 

 an unusual state of excitement, having seen a very- 

 large bear enter a cave situated in a neighbouring 

 ravine. Right or wrong, with perfect disregard for 

 consequences, he had determined to have the pelt of 

 this 'tarnation crittur.' 



I knew the old man's character too well not to 

 be aware that any opposition on my part would only 

 make him the more obstinate in carrying out his 

 schemes ; so, making a virtue of necessity, I was 

 therefore compelled to submit to his caprice, or sever 

 partnership with him an alternative that could 

 only be regarded with dread. 



He washed out his rifle silently, without even a 

 whistle ; and on his countenance there was a frown, 



