248 THE EASTERN HUNTERS. 



in the breast of any nocturnal visitor that the 

 vicinity of the water had been the scene of man's 

 labours. 



The branches when brought were fixed crossways, 

 some in the forks of the trees where possible, and 

 firmly fastened where such a rest was not obtain- 

 able. On the little platform thus constructed 

 small branches and twigs were interwoven, and a 

 layer of leaves placed on the top of all. The 

 " muchan," now completed, was then concealed 

 by arranging the boughs around it, and breaking 

 off or turning aside one or two which intercepted 

 a view of the water. It formed rather a hard 

 seat for a length of time, but the watcher was 

 able either to sit or recline in a doubled-up 

 posture. Two were made, one on either side of the 

 pool. One was destined to contain Mackenzie, 

 Hawkes, and an attendant ; the other, Norman and 

 Rugonauth. 



After the completion of these nests the whole 

 party betook themselves to the village. 



On their return it was found that Manuel, with 

 his train, had arrived. He had procured three 

 rough bedsteads from the village, and on these 

 spread the gentlemen's rugs, so that they were able 

 to lounge about at ease. They were engaged in 

 this agreeable occupation, when it was announced 



