344 



THE ADVENTURES OF 



ed Lucien the circular hole on the seed which has given to 

 the plant its family name (JPortulacce). 



Some maize-cakes and a salad formed our frugal break- 

 fast, which was discussed on the edge of the stream. Lu- 

 cien especially seemed to enjoy it, for I was indeed obliged 

 to check him, the appetizing flavor of the salad had so 

 sharpened his appetite. 



When we had finished our meal, Sumichrast tried to 

 climb the steep bank ; but the ground gave way under his 

 feet, and two or three times he fell. I left Lucien to man- 

 age for himself, for his falls were not likely to be danger- 

 ous. As he was much less heavy than we were, he suc- 

 ceeded in reaching the level of the plain first, and with 

 very little trouble, when he amused himself by laughing 

 disrespectfully at our efforts. 



" You had better take care of your ears," cried my friend, 

 addressing Lucien ; " if I could reach you I would use them 

 to hang on by." 



In vain we tried to find a more accessible path. At last, 

 getting rid of my gun and game-bag, I accomplished the 

 ascent. 



" That's all very well !" exclaimed Sumichrast, fatigued 

 and cramped with his exertions ; " but how am I to reach 

 you, now that I have two guns and two bags to carry ?" 



" Wait a bit !" cried Lucien ; and, running down the 

 slope, he soon disappeared. 



I heard him cutting at something with his machete; 

 soon after he came up again, carrying a long stem of cane. 



" Now we'll try and fish up M. Sumichrast," said he. 



Sitting down on the bank, I held out the rod to my com- 

 panion, who at once seized it, and, thus supported, gradual- 

 ly managed to bring up all our hunting-gear, and ultimately 

 himself, when, instead of pulling " Master Sunbeam's " ears, 

 he gave him a kiss as a reward for his ingenious idea. 



