CKAP-NA-GOWER. 65 



fancied I had missed him altogether. It was a wonder to 

 all of us how the second had not finished him, so fair was 

 he struck. The third passed through his heart. 



It was now agreed that we should separate, for a 

 thorough search after the wounded goat. It proved 

 unsuccessful, although we were assisted by half-a-dozen 

 pair of active limbs and sharp eyes the general birthright 

 of Highlanders. The shades of evening drew on, and we 

 were obliged to take to our boat. 



******** 



What motive was it that made me decline a shooting 

 party next morning, and determine upon a second excursion 

 to the Lone Isle ? After the narrative of the preceding 

 day, I have little right to expect belief, when I say it was 

 compassion. I could not help thinking that the poor goat 

 might be alive ; and, if so, nothing awaited him but a 

 lingering death of pain. Having quickly finished my 

 breakfast, I was soon seated at the oar, with a sturdy 

 partner, and pulling rapidly for the quiet strand. 



The people of the island had been on the outlook; and 

 about two hours before we came, had seen him slowly 

 limping up a hill. With my attendant behind me, I 

 immediately walked off in the direction they pointed out. 

 I had not long to look. Upon the pinnacle of the hill, 

 which commanded a view all round, sat the poor goat, 

 evidently in dread of a surprise like yesterday's. There 

 was no possibility of stalking him ; and the moment he 

 saw me, he rose leisurely to his feet, and descended the 

 hill on the other side. He then sauntered to the rocks on 



E 



