6 THE EASTERN HUNTERS. 



" Ah, Mac ! " retorted Norman, reproachfully, 

 " you never would take the trouble to learn pugging, 

 though it is so essential an acquirement in wood- 

 craft. If you had not me to look after your erring 

 ways sometimes, you would be a lost man. Be 

 thankful, you graceless giant, for all your mercies, 

 and let Hawkes improve his youthful mind in 

 learning what is so desirable. However, shove 

 along. We can't be very far from the tents, I 

 should say, if miles are computed at less than double 

 their proper length in these parts. For I certainly 

 make this last stage to be near about twice as many 

 coss as it was stated to be." 



Thus encouraged, Mackenzie again led off at a 

 good round canter, followed at respectful distances, 

 to avoid the full flavour of the dust, by the other 

 two. Another mile and a half did in fact bring the 

 party in view of the tents ; and the ready syces 

 rushed from their quarters near the horse-pickets to 

 seize the bridles of their charges. 



Well pleased indeed were all three to dismount 

 from their wearied sweating hacks, and seek the 

 pleasant shade of the tents. For the month was 

 May, and the sun, though but a few hours high, 

 intensely hot. The riders had been in their saddles 

 for many hours, having accomplished, on horses 

 previously posted for the purpose, about fifty miles 



