INTRODUCTION. 15 



impress the memory of my son with a sight of some of the 

 grand scenes of tropical nature, so that he should retain 

 correct ideas of the wonderful country in which his infan- 

 cy had been spent. I moreover knew that PEncuerado, the 

 gallant Indian who had been my servant for so many 

 years, perfectly adored his young master, and would watch 

 over him just as I should, and thus ward off any possible 

 mishaps. On the other hand, I risked inspiring my son 

 with that love of travel and adventure which had contrib- 

 uted materially to my scientific collection, but very little 

 to my fortune. Nevertheless, what a wholesome influence 

 is exercised over the mind by an almost unceasing struggle 

 with the difficulties that beset one's course through an un- 

 known country. Both the mind and body of my son must 

 surely benefit by such an excursion, which might be curtail- 

 ed if desirable. Soon after the boy returned, accompanied 

 by his mother. 



" What is all this about a journey, for which my consent 

 is the only requisite ?" asked my wife. 

 " Mine is needed too," I answered. 



" Why not take him, dear ? L'Encuerado has promised 

 me that he will not lose sight of him for an instant." 



" What ! do you take his part ?" 



m He does long so much to go with you," she said. 



" Be it so," I replied. " Get your clothes ready, for we 

 must be off the day after to-morrow at daybreak." 



Lucien was almost beside himself with joy. He rushed 

 about the house from one end to the other ; gave the serv- 

 ants much unnecessary trouble ; leggings, boots, and a game- 

 bag, he wanted ; also a sword, a knife, insect-cases — in fact, 

 a whole multitude of requirements. L'Encuerado, who was 

 almost as rejoiced as the lad, cut him a travelling-staff, as 

 strong and light as was requisite, and made him other aux- 

 iliaries necessary on such excursions. From this moment 



