THE FIEST HOUE OF DAWN. 263 



Norman's tree, aud he rightly conjectured that Mac- 

 kenzie was refreshing himself after his long nap ; 

 and perhaps endeavouring to soothe the wrath 

 which the culpable negligence of Mr. Bappoo had 

 aroused. 



Before a brief half-hour had passed a jungle cock 

 uttered its shrill crow of welcome, as dawn opposed 

 the declining moon. Imperceptible at first, after 

 briefly battling with the moonlight, it triumphed 

 ever its paler antagonist, and rushed with tropical 

 celerity over the waste of jungle. The] first 

 jungle-cock's crow was quickly caught up by num- 

 bers of others, and the jungle awoke as its feathered 

 denizens greeted the approaching day, and seemed 

 to enjoy its first fresh hour. 



When it was fairly light, the two parties descended 

 from their respective perches, and met over the pool. 

 After a good shake and stretch they proceeded to 

 examine the marks by the water's side. 



A very brief inspection of the footprints showed 

 that large clots of blood had fallen from the wounded 

 beast. These increased in quantity as they advanced, 

 and plainly indicated the path by which it had fled. 

 With rifles cocked and ready they followed the track 

 thus easily discernible, and about twenty yards 

 further came on the dead body of a fine panther. 

 Both bullets had taken effect behind the shoulder, 



