A LONELY FOREST 229 



I was searching for, he knew no more than myself. I 

 tried to force a way to the river by means of a steep 

 declivity, but, after scrambling down a hundred feet, I 

 came upon a ledge of rock and, on looking over, 

 found myself on the summit of a precipice which 

 might have served for an eagle's eyrie. I beat a 

 cautious retreat. It was the kind of place one not in 

 search of a grizzly might find him, and, being practi- 

 cally a cul de sacy might lead to unpleasant conse- 

 quences. Bears are not given to attacking except as 

 the easiest way of making their escape. Having 

 nothing in the shape of a weapon more formidable 

 than a salmon gaff, I declined the risks. 



One thing soon learned in the forest and 

 mountains is, that without a guide it Is inadvisable 

 to leave the beaten track. At length I discovered 

 the trail, which proved a most difficult one. The 

 way was blocked by fallen trees, abrupt descents, 

 and other impedimenta inimical to flesh and 

 clothing. I was compelled at one point to scramble 

 over a charred log, which blackened my nether 

 garments beyond the point of defensible respectability. 

 The day had been exceedingly hot, and the mutter- 

 ings of a thunderstorm could be heard in the 

 distance. When I got to the river I found it very 

 low, like Capilano and Lynn. The force of the 

 current during spate could be deciphered in the 

 stones in the river's bed. They were as smooth and 

 polished as pebbles on the seashore. 



