860 THE EASTERN HUNTERS. 



There was in the neighbourhood a basin in the 

 hills, almost rock-rimmed, with but a narrow neck, 

 which, opening into the plain, gave exit in the 

 monsoon to the abundance of water which poured 

 into it from the heights around. This spot, he 

 asserted, was frequently sought by tigers, even 

 during the hottest weather, in preference to the 

 cool river beds. Its attractions consisted in its 

 secluded position, and the many dark, sheltered 

 retreats which existed among its huge boulders, 

 and under its overhanging cliffs. 



While Eugonauth, therefore, with some of the 

 local trackers, sought for pugs in the river which 

 flowed in the vicinity and was a portion of that 

 which watered Mungaum, Roopur, the new assistant, 

 proceeded before dawn direct to the spot I have 

 mentioned. Having posted one or two men in 

 positions overlooking the basin itself and such inlets 

 as a tiger could enter by, he established himself in 

 a tree commanding the narrow opening to the plain, 

 and there patiently waited. 



Shortly before sunrise he saw a tiger approach at 

 a walk from the direction of the river, enter by the 

 opening on that side, and disappear among the 

 jungle and rocks. More than once he again caught 

 sight of it clambering over some obstructing boulder, 

 or dimly moving among the bushes, until it finally 



