132 WILD LIFE IN NORTH CANARA. 



I resolved, therefore, to make this 

 inspection in person, and without notice. 

 It was not practicable to take a horse, 

 as the forest streams were sure to be 

 full, and I began the journey in a ton- 

 jon; but after travelUng about seven 

 miles, we came to an unfordable torrent, 

 the only means of crossing which was 

 a tiny " dugout," of rude construction, 

 and very crank. Here, therefore, I 

 sent back the tonjon, resolving to walk 

 the rest of the way. 



Honama and ten or twelve of his 

 shikaries were with me, carrying my 

 baggage, but none of these had skill 

 enough to work the " dugout " to and 

 fro, neither could either of the two 

 peons who accompanied me undertake it. 



In this dilemma a man of action came 



