Citation
The boy cruisers, or, Paddling in Florida

Material Information

Title:
The boy cruisers, or, Paddling in Florida
Portion of title:
Paddling in Florida
Creator:
Rathborne, St. George, 1854-1938
Burt, A. L. (Albert Levi), 1843-1913 ( publisher )
Place of Publication:
New York
Publisher:
A.L. Burt
Publication Date:
Language:
English
Physical Description:
iv, [3], 6-264, [6], 27, [9] p. : ill. ; 20 cm.

Subjects

Subjects / Keywords:
Adventure and adventurers -- Juvenile fiction ( lcsh )
Voyages and travels -- Juvenile fiction ( lcsh )
Friendship -- Juvenile fiction ( lcsh )
Canoes and canoeing -- Juvenile fiction -- Florida ( lcsh )
Outdoor life -- Juvenile fiction ( lcsh )
Camping -- Juvenile fiction ( lcsh )
Seminole Indians -- Juvenile fiction ( lcsh )
Alligators -- Juvenile fiction ( lcsh )
Hunting -- Juvenile fiction ( lcsh )
Natural history -- Juvenile fiction ( lcsh )
Youth -- Conduct of life -- Juvenile fiction ( lcsh )
Conduct of life -- Juvenile fiction ( lcsh )
Juvenile fiction -- Florida ( lcsh )
Publishers' catalogues -- 1893 ( rbgenr )
Bldn -- 1893
Genre:
Publishers' catalogues ( rbgenr )
novel ( marcgt )
Spatial Coverage:
United States -- New York -- New York
Target Audience:
juvenile ( marctarget )

Notes

General Note:
Publisher's catalogue follows text.
Statement of Responsibility:
by St. George Rathborne ; illustrated.

Record Information

Source Institution:
University of Florida
Rights Management:
This item is presumed to be in the public domain. The University of Florida George A. Smathers Libraries respect the intellectual property rights of others and do not claim any copyright interest in this item. Users of this work have responsibility for determining copyright status prior to reusing, publishing or reproducing this item for purposes other than what is allowed by fair use or other copyright exemptions. Any reuse of this item in excess of fair use or other copyright exemptions may require permission of the copyright holder. The Smathers Libraries would like to learn more about this item and invite individuals or organizations to contact The Department of Special and Area Studies Collections (special@uflib.ufl.edu) with any additional information they can provide.
Resource Identifier:
002445337 ( ALEPH )
AMF0578 ( NOTIS )
214278428 ( OCLC )

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Aap NT ae

arte





A WILD CAT ON BOARD THE CANOE,



THE BOY CRUISERS,

OR

PADDLING IN FLORIDA, -

By ST. GEORGE RATHBORNE.

ILLUSTRATED.



NEW YORE:
A. L. BURT, PUBLISHER.



sual ae es oe ere
CorpyricHT 1893, BY A. L. BURT.





CONTENTS.

CHaprmr L—Youne Bucrrarts AT Kry WEst.
CHAPTER 1].—Tuer First Niegut Our,

CIAPTER [11.—Tur Canon BATTERY CALLED INTO ACTION,

Cuapter IV.—A Witp OUTSIDE Passaan.

CHAPTER V.—STORMBOUND ON A FLoripa Kry.

CHAPTER VI.—A Wet TurasH TO WINDWARD.

CHAPTER VII.—Roanp STRIKES GAME.

CHAPTER VIII.—Orr ror THE EVERGLADES.

CHAPTER IX.—Canoz Lire AMONG THE KeEyYs,

CHAPTER X.—Tur MUTTERING IN THE AIR.

CHAPTER XI.—StRIKING THE SILVER King.

CHAPTER XIL.—Tue First ALLIGATOR SERENADE,

CHAPTER XIII.—A Nigut VISITOR.

CHAPTER XIV.--Tur Lost Camp-FIire.

CHAPTER XV.—FomLing THR ALLIGATOR HUNTERS.

CHaPrer XVI.—A Ramy Day ww Camp.

CHAPTER XVII.—Swamp LirE In SOUTHERN FLORIDA.

CHAPTER XVIII.—SnHoorine A Honey THIEF,

CHAPTER XIX.—Tun EVERGLADES aT Last.

CHAPTER XX.—Free in THE Sky.

CHAPTER XXI.—A Brirp HATCHERY.

CHAPTER XXIT.—ALONE In THE WILDS OF FLORIDA.

CHAPTER XXIIL.—Tur SEMINOLE CAMP-FIRES.

CHAPTER XXIV.—AnpREW’s Story.

CHAPTER XXV.—Tur SEMINOLE Gurpr,

CHAPTER XXVI.—A Fire Hunt IN THE PINE Woops.

CHAPTER XXVII.—OxKrEcHoBeEr, THE DismaL LAKE.

CHAPTER XXVIIL—A CANOE “MEET” IN THE Harr
FLORIDA.

OF



iv CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XXIX.—CRUISING THROUGH THE CANAL.
CHAPTER XX X.—DEER-STALKING.

‘CHAPTER XXXI.—ON GUARD ALL NIGHT.
CHAPTER XXXII.—ON THE ’HATCHEE RIVER.
CHAPTER XX XIII.—RESTING aT MYERS.

CHAPTER XXXIV.—A BLACK THIEF IN THE NIGHT.
CHAPTER XXXV.—THE ANGLER’S PARADISE.
CHAPTER XXXVI.—SHaARK FISHING.

CHAPTER XXXVII.—IN CHARLOTTE HARBOR.
CHAPTER XXXVIII.—TuHE Last Camp-FIRE.



ILLUSTRATIONS.



Fronvisprece.—“ Tur Bos-Cat” and THE CRUISER.
PLGE

INITIAL.—GOObD-BY TO KEY WEST, : A s 2 f 4
InpIAN RIVER AND GULF SHARPIE, ScHOONER-Ria@eD, . 11
TREE Post-OFFICE ON FLORIDA RIVER, 3 ; " . 15
TarL-Prece.—-*‘ UNDER THE SPANISH Moss,” ‘i » 25
INITIAL.—PADDLING FoR LIFE, A 3 : a . 26
“Down Sars, anp Take To THE Pappu,” 2 . a tok
TAIL-PIECE.—LIGHTHOUSE AND STORM, 4 : 3 . 40
INITIAL.—PURSUED BY SAND FLIES, . 3 ‘i : . Al
INITIAL.—ROLAND STRIKES GAME, : 5 ; ‘ wens AT
Tur Canoz Camp at Nicest, . f 6 : 3 . 49
INITIAL.—READING THE LoG OVER AT HOME, 5 . 60
InrTIAL.—TARPON FISHING IN A CANOE, : 4 Sap eel8
Tum ‘‘ CRACKER’? HoNEY-GATHERER, .» S : So UE:
TaIL-PIECE.—WHITE-HEADED EAGLE, a 91
INITIAL.—ROLAND’S BEAR, ; F 5 - 5 - 92
Init1aL.—THE BirD Roost IN THE SWAMP, : soe OS
A SHOT FROM THE WATER, é ‘ : A ; . 115
JNITIAL,—‘“‘ T,” . . 3 ° : 3 » «,- 128
A FLORIDA “PALACE” SEETCHED FROM NATURE, >» 158
TuRTLE HuntTinad ALONG THE KEYS, . . . ae = eee lfil
INITIAL.—‘ LITTLE TOMMY AND THE ALLIGATOR,” . 172
ROLLY’s SCRAPE WITH THE RAzor-Back Hoas, f - 176
InrTIAL.—‘‘ Possession NINE POINTS OF THE Law,” . ; 185
IniTi1aL.—A TYPICAL ‘‘ CRACKER,”’. 5 ‘ . 190
“THE CRITTER SNAPPED ITS JAWS SHUT ON His Hanp,”’. 196
TarIL-Precre.—* THE SNAKE IN THE GRASS,” ‘3 . + 222
Roxanp to tar RescuE or THE SEMINOLE, . . . 220
Tue Canor Cruisers orr Punta Rassa, : : . 239
INITIAL.—LANDING A MONSTER SITARK, 2 . ° . 246
Tur YANKEE SHOWMAN’S WONDERFUL WHITE WHALE, . 249

TalL-PIEcE,—‘‘ GOOD-BY,” : . i S , 5 . 264



PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

CHAPTER I.
YOUNG BUCKTAILS AT KEY WEST.

{7 WAS exactly noon, on the
‘second day of January, 1887,
that the Morgan line steam-
er came into port at Key
West—that strange city at
the very southern point of the
United States.
She was somewhat over-
due, for quite a severe spell
of weather had been experi-
enced on the way down from
New York, ‘which had delayed her progress, although
at no time was any alarm felt by those on board.
Among other things left on the dock at Key West
were two beautiful canoes, wrapped in heavy folds of
bagging, and which seemed to be well loaded, to judge
from their weight.
There were besides two barrels of duffle,* and a couple
of the brightest young fellows one would expect to run
across anywhere. .





* A term used by canoeists to indicate traps of all sorts carried on
a cruise, even to edibles. It is also in vogue among old sportsmen,
and covers, like charity, a multitude of sins. —AUTHOR.





6 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

One of them had rather a nautical appearance, and
his bronzed features told that he was an old campaign-
er on the water, though still young in years.

His companion was a sturdy, well-built fellow, with
a homely, genial countenance, and, while ready for any

fun, he could be serious enough when the occasion de-
manded it.

These two young cruisers were not down in this re-
mote region of the United States on a mere sight-see-
ing tour.

They had before them a task that had never yet been
accomplished by such small and fragile vessels as their
own.

Other cruisers of a much larger pattern had made a.
flying trip from Key West up the Gulf coast since Dr.
Henshall described the sport to be found there, but
never members of the light and airy Mosquito fleet.

This was the task before them.

They intended leaving Key West, and, if no misfor-
tune overtook them, to bring up at Tampa some time ;
late in the Spring. It was a piece of daring few young
men would have ventured to carry through, but had
long been a dream of the sun-browned cruiser, Andrew
George, while his companion, Roland Carter, had only
lately fallen in with it.

There was danger in the undertaking, but both of
them were used to roughing it in the woods, so that
they anticipated no trouble that could not be overcome
by persistent endeavor. At the same time they knew
full well that such a long cruise, a considerable portion
of which must be made in thé open waters of the Gulf, .

_ always deemed a treacherous friend by those who know





YOUNG BUCKTAILS AT KEY WEST. q

it best, was sure to bring them no little honor among
their fellows of the American Canoe Association.

The day was lovely and warm, and both boys threw
off their coats in order to get things in readiness for
the business in hand. First of all they took the burlap
covers off the canoes, and found that the delicate boats

had received no perceptible injury as a legacy of their

long transportation from the interior of Pennsylvania.
The boats were not new, but in good condition. They
had carried their daring young skippers on many a
cruise—indeed, the little Mabel had thousands of miles
on-her log, and Roland in Sea Urchin, though less of a
wanderer, had been through considerable, considering:
that her master was only a two-year canoeist.

With the assistance of ready bystanders they soon
had the little vessels floating on their native element.
Both were rejoiced to find that the strain which had
of late been upon the canoes in handling them partly
loaded, did not appear to have started a single seam,
so well was their planking put together.

Naturally the lookers-on were filled with admiration
‘or the jaunty craft, although when they learned the
lestination of the adventurers they predicted all man-
ner of dire things in store for the expedition. These
men were oystermen, fishermen and spongers, who
were supposed to know all about the west coast and
its dangers. Hence Roland heard their comments with
some misgivings, but as he spoke to Andy with regard
to it the other laughed.

“Pay no attention to the croakers, Rolly. They
simply underestimate our craft because they have never
Seen acanoe ride the waves. If we were going to



8 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

make the trip ina yacht they would think it all right,
and yet to my mind there is less danger in a canoe, for
we can keep close to land, and get beyond the reach of
a storm by drawing up on shore.”’

‘“*Some of these spongers might give us points, as
they have been over the course so often, Andy.”’

But the skipper of the Mabel snapped his fingers.

« Hivery man would tell a different story. No, thank
you Rolly; all the information we can get lies here,’’
holding up a tin chart case, ‘“‘and what this won’t tell
us we'll find out for ourselves. We’re in for a long
cruise, but in the end we’ll pull through.

“Listen! There’s a fellow who’s taken the croak-
ers to task. He knows something about canoes, I
reckon. Hear him!” : h

“‘You fellers leave the boys alone. Ye don’t know
what yer talkin’ about. Them boats ain’t to be sunk
by any ornary storm. Cause why? Ain’t I seen
Kirke Monroe up at Biscayne Bay come in on rollers
‘as high as a house, and beach the boat without spill-
in’adrop inher? Ye let the boys alone and they’ll
bring up at Tampa.”

Still the curious crowd bothered our cruisers so
much with their remarks that the balance of the duftle
was hastily stowed, and they took up the double pad-
dles to seek a more retired place where the rest of
their work could be accomplished without curious eyes
being upon them,

By evening the dunnage was well stowed. They
secured the hatches on their boats and left the minia-«
ture craft in charge of a man who rented out row-
boats. Then they went to the city, sought a hotel



YOUNG BUCKTAILS AT KEY WEST. 9.

and had what was likely to be their last civilized meal
for many weeks, if not months.

Key West is a strange city, and the cruisers might
have spent several days in. examining its half-Spanish
features and many queer sights; but they were anx-
ious to be off, and had determined. to leave on the fol-
lowing day, should the weather prove favorable.

At this time of the year—the dry spell in southern
Florida—rainy days are seldom seen; indeed, some- >
times not a drop falls for a whole month, and as a con-
sequence fresh water commands a premium. :

This was one of the most serious problems our
young friends would have to solve, for their stowage
room was so small that only a single can of water
could. be carried in bulk, and even this had to be plac-
ed'on deck when the time came for sleeping in the
boats. Bottles containing fresh water were stowed
away in a few nooks, and these would come in
handy.

Each canoe was well laden ; they would require no
ballast, for the many packages of canned goods—
corned beef, Boston baked beans, condensed milk,
corn, tomatoes, roast beef, dried beef, etc.—stowed as
_ well forward as possible, served in lieu of the usual
bar of railroad iron, although in a heavy sea they
were apt to shift and bring danger unless carefully
housed.

After dinner at the hotel, our young friends made a
few purchases, having remembered on their trip
down that a necessity here and there had been for-
gotten.

Thus ‘Roland invested in a second small Chester



10» PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

folding anchor and a strong fifty-foot cable; a few

fixings, such as a chock to place at the bow for the

anchor-rope, and a piece of canvas out of which to

make a temporary hatch, for the wooden sections
_-were to be left behind at Key West to be shipped to
- Tampa, as they are a nuisance on a cruise, being for-
ever in the way.

There might come times when the wind would blow
too heavily to allow the boat tents to be erected, and
on such occasions this canvas hatch could be buttoned
along the outside of the cockpit, and the cruiser sleep
calmly below, safe from rain and spray, as “‘ snug as
a bug ina rug,’’ as Andy declared when showing his
arrangement to his chum. j

On his part Andy had secured a few things that
would be valuable, and which his experience told him
would be worth their weight in silver, under certain
conditions that might arise.

The boys were uneasy because of being away from
their beloved craft, and kept imagining all sorts of
evils. About the middle of the night Roland started
up in bed and began to thrash about him with exceed-
ing gusto.

“Let that boat alone, you lubber! Come back
with her, I say. Hello! Andy !”’

‘‘ Well, what’s the matter ?’’ said a sleepy voice.

“That sponger has gone off with my boat. Bless
my soul! where am 1?”

‘‘Safe in bed atthe hotel. Lie down and go to
sleep, there’s a good fellow.” And with a yawn Andy
turned over, leaving his bewildered companion to sum
up the situation and turn in again ‘all standing.”’



YOUNG BUCKTAILS AT KEY WEST. It

With the early dawn Roland was off to the boat-
keeper’s, haunted by the fear that his dream might be
true; but both canoes were. safely at anchor, bobbing
up and down on the little waves that came in with the
fresh morning breeze.





CHAPTER II.
THE FIRST NIGHT OUT.

YOR

Hy); HE day was fair, and the
, <= . cruisers saw no reason why
they should not be off as early
as possible. One thing or an-
AAS other detained them. It was
La Nirah cea no light task to leave Key

i ce West and start upon their long
journey of exploration, soa little
delay was better than some blunder in
forgetting a thing that was essential to
their well-being.

So they ate their lunch in the boats, after
which Roland went to mail letters written
to near friends who were decidedly interested in their
contemplated cruise, while Andy finished a job he had
on hand.

It was three o’clock when all had been done, and Ro-
land tossed down his log-book, in which he had been
scribbling.

“What say, is it go or hang over here another night,
Andy ?”

Andrew bent nearer him, as though apprehensive of
some one overhearing.

“We must change our quarters, going to another
part of the island, anyhow.’’





THE FIRST NIGHT OUT. 18

“Why ?”?

“Haven’t you noticed those two fellows hanging
around—the one with a single eye and a companion
about as good-looking as a Turk 2”’

“T have; but, Jupiter Ammon! you don’t suspect
‘they would attempt anything here?”

“T don’t know; such men wouldn’t hold back long on
a dark night in New York harbor, and I don’t believe
they’re any better here. Besides, what with our guns
and the multitude of other things we carry, this is a
cargo to tempt anything.”

‘* Andy, you’re right—as usual.”

“Then make ready to up anchor.”

“Good! I’m with you, commodore.”

To say the word was equivalent to action with An-
drew. In a minute his Chester mud-hook came
aboard, the little mainsail went up, and immediately
the Mabel started upon her long cruise up the Florida
coast—a cruise that was to be fraught with many
strange perils and adventures. such as would linger in
the memory of the young skippers for years.

The Sea Urchin was not many seconds behind. and

_ followed her leader out upon the dancing waters of the
eGulf. ~
Something like a curse sounded from the shore, and
looking back Roland could see the two men whom his
companion had spoken of talking earnestly together,
while they gesticulated after the manner of all Cubans.

The boys took off their felt hats and waved them at
the little knot of spongers on shore, who responded with
a cheer. One, whose language plainly indicated that
he was a Conch, bawled out:







14 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

< snap hup one of ’em sweet little craft.”’

The boys shouted back, feeling particularly joyous

‘under the exhilarating movement of the well-balanced
canoes with the breeze over the starboard quarter.

And so they left Key West, to see civilization no
more for weeks. If they got through all right, the
next point they expected to strike where men had ga-
thered into a social community would be the thriving
village of Myers, upon the Caloosahatchee river.

Roland kept in the wake of the Mabel, watching to
see what his companion would do. He knew Andy
would not dream of starting upon the long stretch be-
tween the island of Key West and the key next to
them at this late hour in the afternoon and with a
failing breeze.

On the Gulf coast—as is generally the case along the
Indian river—the breeze comes up in the morning with
the sun, fresh and vigorous, and, under ordinary cir-
cumstances, lasts until one or two o’clock in the after-
noon, when it gradually dies out, to arise again—per-
haps from a new quarter later on. This has been the ex-
perience of the writer during many and many a day
spent along the wonderful Indian river, and it will be
found about the same all over the coast region of
Florida.

Their speed became slower, until at last the wind
had passed into the “fluke” stage, and they made
little progress. With canoeists, however, such an event
knows but one remedy. Paddles came into play, and
the prows of the little craft cleft the salt water as roy-
ally as they had ever done the pellucid bosom of Lake



THE FIRST NIGHT OUT. 15

George, and the St. Lawrence river at Grindstone
Island meets.

Andy kept close to the land, his sharp eyes on the
lookout for a camping site. They would get as far
from the environs of the city as possible, believing that
it was best to doso, and then spend the night ‘‘ on their



























































































































A Tree Post Office on a Florida River.

arms,’’ figuratively speaking, so as to be ready to take
advantage of the fresh breeze that would come with
the rising sun.

The little cove they sought was found at last, and



16 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

poth canoes drawn up on the beach. It was not an
ideal camping ground, by any means, but would pass
muster in lieu of a better.

When all was made snug a fire was started on
shore by Roland, who found plenty of wood that
needed only the sharp edge of his hatchet to make it
available for the purpose. He noticed that Andy
looked in the direction of the city more than once, as
though there was something on his mind.

“Sorry you left, Andy ?’’ he asked.

“Not a bit of it. I was only wondering whether we
would get through the night without a rumpus.”’

“JT don’t quite understand.’

«Those fellows can reach us here, if they know we
areincamp. What is to hinder?”

‘‘ Nothing, that’s a fact. They can come by boat or
overland. What shall we do, Andy?’’

“Wait awhile. We'll fix it all.”

The meal was prepared in a jolly way, each of the
cruisers joking about everything that turned up out
of the way. Now that the trip was a thing of the
present, and not of the future, they were conscious of a
deep feeling of satisfaction that could not be expressed
in words, but which showed itself in the interest they
took in everything pertaining to their work.

When supper was over they talked about the
situation, and endeavored to develop the best plan that
would meet it. Andy suggested finally that they
anchor their boats in the cove, side by side, and take
turns watching. It would perhaps be the only night
they would have to do such a thing, as their future



THE FIRST NIGHT OUT. 17

ones might be expected to be unmolested, at least so
far as human beings were concerned.

The canoes were anchored about a length apart. It
the wind changed in the night, both would turn to-
gether, and yet the boys could come alongside by the
rear canoe being paddled around, swinging her stern
close to the bow of the forward boat.

Lighting their pipes, the boys talked over matters
connected with the cruise before them. The tents had
been triced up, and all was comfortable on board such
diminutive craft. Experience in the past enabled them
to secure all the comfort possible, and every square
inch of room was utilized to hold some necessity. Al-
though the boats were so well laden, little had been
taken upon the trip that was a luxury. There is one
old veteran camper—Nessmuk—who might have
started upon such an expedition with less than they
carried, but even he has learned of late some new
things with regard to Florida cruising.

Reminiscences. were also indulged in, and they
laughed again over some ridiculous scrape they had
gotten into, the previous summer, when making a trip
down the Susquehanna river from a point in the
mountains.

At length Andy yawned, and made a slap ata ven-
turesome mosquito that had managed to find its way
inside the bar of coarse cheese-cloth with which the
interior of each canoe tent was draped.

‘You can have either the first or second watch,
Andy,” said Roland.

** Which do you prefer?’ |

*“T’ll stand first, if it’s all the same.”



18 : PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

“Very good. There comes the moon out from be-
- hind that cloud. I’m glad it is not going to be dark.
Mind, no sleeping on your post?”’

“Don’t fear for me. Ihave too healthy a recollec-
tion of that one-eyed man’s scowl. What time shall I
wake you up?”

“‘Let’s see. Call it twelve or one, as you please.”’

“ Good-night, Mabel.”’

“Ditto, Sea Urchin.”

Andy settled down to court the gentle goddess, while
his fellow-cruiser set himself to the task of keeping
awake. It was no light labor, and he more than once
had to shake off the terrible drowsy feeling that crept
over him.

‘Everything seemed to induce sleep; the gentle mo-
tion of the cedar craft upon the water, the murmur of
the little waves as they lapped against the starboard
planking (for the wind was gradually veering to the
south), the droning sound of insects in the air—all these
combined to form a lullaby which was soothing to the
cruiser’s ears, and it was only by persistent effort that
Roland kept the lids of his eyes from gluing fast.

Hours passed.

The moon had moved along in her course. It must
be after midnight.

Suddenly Roland pricked up his ears to listen, while
at the same time his hand crept to the hook on which
his revolver hung.



CHAPTER III.

THE CANOE BATTERY CALLED INTO ACTION.

HE young skipper of the Sea
Urchin was wide awake in an
instant, for he could still see in
his mind the evil face of that
one-eyed man who had looked
so gloatingly upon the canoes
and their valuable cargoes.

As the little boat swung at her anchorage

she was just ahead of the Mabel. All

seemed silent as the grave on board the
latter craft, and without a doubt her master
was sound asleep.

Roland turned his attention toward the shore; as
the canoe lay she presented her port quarter toward
the interior of the little cove. There were, perhaps,
.some twenty feet of water between the spot of their
anchorage and that where the gentle waves splashed
upon the coquina rock-lined shore.

The moon was as bright as a new silver dollar, so
. that every inch of this water-covered space could be
seen by a pair of ordinary eyes.

A number of strange noises had greeted the ear of
the young Bucktail while reclining in his boat during
the hours passed by. He had spent many a night in





20 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Northern woods, but there are new things to be met
with in the weird swamps and along the coast line of
fair Florida, from the terrible, yellow moccasin of the
interior, and his alligator companion, to the great tar-
pon of the salt water. Birds, fish and animals—there
are many new things to be found under this Southern
sky, such as Northern eyes have never seen.

Roland had heard the splashing of many fishes, the
rush and roar of schools of mullet when pursued by
their finny foes, and had smiled in contemplation of
the sport for his faithful rod ahead.

He had caught the weird cry—a croaking sound—
of the night heron, as that lonely bird settled upon
the rocks of the little beach, intent on finding a meal
in the water; but even this had failed to arouse him
from his lethargy.

When, however, he caught the splashing sound
coming from between the canoes and the shore, he was
fully aroused. Itmust be caused by some large ani-
mal or a human being. Perhaps it was an alligator.
Not having seen a live saurian as yet, his mind was
full of vague alarm with respect to the damage such
a reptile might do; for the words of the melancholy
Conch still rang in his ear with respect to letting an
alligator close his jaws upon one of the frail craft.

No sooner had Roland looked out than he saw the
cause of the commotion.

The side-flaps of his boat-tent were partly up, the
netting of cheese-cloth covering over all, thus prevent-
ing insects from entering, and yet not keeping out the
fresh night air.

Thus Roland was enabled to see without himself be-



THE BATTERY CALLED INTO ACTION. a1

ing discovered. Tt was a spectacle to make the blood
dash more violently through his veins, and cause him
to press his teeth together firmly. ;

Two dark, bulky objects were seen upon the water-—
they were the figures of men. Even as the young
Bucktail looked he saw one of them advance a few
feet, making as little noise as was possible under the
circumstances.

Perhaps one of them had tripped over some object
under the water. This would account for the splash-
ing sound that had aroused Roland. If this was really
the case, he and his fellow-cruiser had reason to be
thankful that accidents sometimes occur even in the
best regulated families.

Roland at first sight recognized in the leader of
these two men the one-eyed individual who had evinced
such a decided interest in the canoes. His companion
was no doubt formed upon the same model as himself.
They were evidently desperadoes, who believed a
chance offered to make a big haul with little risk.

For once they mistook their men.

There could be no question as to the motives of the
night prowlers. That their mission was evil was evi-
dent from their very actions

Now, Roland was no old soldier.. He had never shed
a drop of human blood in his young life, and had a deep-
rooted horror of ever being compelled to do so, though
Should the circumstance arise, and it became neces-
sary for him to defend himself, he would prove equal
to the task.

Under the present circumstances he believed these
thieves were natural cowards, and they would be suffi-



29 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

ciently alarmed if they suddenly became aware that
they were discovered.

Groping for the edge of the cheese-cloth curtain, he
raised it gently. Nothing now obstructed his vision,
nor was there any impediment to his firing. The
time had come for the circus to begin. Thrusting out
the hand that held the revolver, he aimed between the
two dark figures, at the water, and pulled the trigger.

There was a crashing report. The water spurted
up where the bullet struck. At the same time Roland -
let out a shout loud enough to have aroused the dead.

“Andy! Thieves! Alligators! Sharks! Ahoy!”

“On deck, Rolly,” said a quiet voice close by, and
bang ! went Andrew’s revolver.

The spectacle was really ludicrous now—to those in
the canoes. Such was the fright of the two rascals in
the cove that they made desperate efforts to gain the
shore. All thought of plunder was overwhelmed in
the grand effort to escape what seemed to be a miser-
able fate. ‘

The water was above their knees, and prevented
their bodies from making as rapid progress as their
cowardly souls desired. As a natural consequence,
both of them fell down.

What with the wild splashing of the two thieves,
their loud cries of alarm, the banging reports of revol-
vers, and shouts of the young fellows in the boats, the
scene was one that would linger long in the memory
of the active participants. 7

The two rascals managed to gain the shore after en-
countering numerous difficulties, and the lively man-
ner in which they clambered in among the sparse



THE BATTERY CALLED INTO ACTION. 23

vegetation testified to the respect in which they held
the young voyagers.

* Listen, Rolly,” said Andrew.

They could distinctly hear the plunging of retreating
footsteps. Evidently the would-be thieves were not
halting upon the manner of their going.

**T reckon we’ve scared them off.”’

“Yes, for once,” said Andy, ‘but they may re-
turn.”’ :

“What shall we do ?”’

«You want some sleep, and there’s no reason you
shouldn’t have it. Get your mud-hook aboard.”

While wondering what was up, Roland did as he
was requested, though it was only accomplished after
some difficulty, for the tent made it hard work to get
at the anchor cable.

When he had finally accomplished the task, he
waited for further orders.

“Get your paddle, Rolly, and roll up the net on
both sides.”

Then they were only about to change their place of
anchorage. Had it been Andy’s intention to quit the ©
neighborhood, his first order would have been to strike
the tents, so that they could have made fair progress.

It was difficult work paddling along in this way
with the tent up. Under most circumstances such a
thing would have been impossible, but fortunately
there was only a faint breath of air stirring from the
south, and this was not a head wind.

Yard by yard they worked out of the cove.

Andrew kept plunging his paddle down every little
while to learn the depth of water. There was little





94. PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

need of this, so shallow did they find it all along. In
most places along the Gulf coast of Florida a yacht
drawing six feet of water has to keep from one to five
miles from land because of the extreme shallow water.
Thus, those who cruise in such boats find little chance
to explore the thousands of inlets that abound in this
region, and which are generally swarming with fish.

When they had gone about a hundred feet from the
shore, Andrew sung out:

“Here we are. Come alongside, Rolly.’’

So saying, he cast his anchor out. There was a
heavy plunge, and the Mabel rode the little waves like
a decoy duck. Roland drew up on aline, although
more than a boat-length away. If the canoes whipped
around they could not foul, as the same breeze or tidal
current would influence both of them.

“Now settle yourself for a good sleep. I’m on
guard, and if the wind rises I’ll wake you up, for we
would have to stow the tents or we could never hold
our anchorage here. Turn in, Rolly.’’

“ Just as you say, Andy,’’ came a sleepy voice from
the bowels of the Sea Urchin.

In five minutes’ time the heavy breathing that came
from this quarter announced that Roland had turned
in, and was already enjoying the sleep that comes to a
mind free from care.

Through the remainder of the night Andrew sat in
his boat, smoking his pipe and keeping a close watch
over the shining, silvery water that lay between them-
selves and the shore. There was no alarm. The ras-
cals had probably been too badly scared by their
former hot reception to think of renewing the assault



THE BATTERY CALLED INTO ACTION. 25

«“ Ahoy there, Sea Urchin !’’ came Andy’s hail, and
Roland poked his ‘head out of the tent.

“ Hello! What’s up now ?”

«Time you were. Daylight is at hand, and the
breeze freshens. We must have breakfast, down with
the tents, and commence our first day at sea. You
know we have some ugly runs before we make the
mainland at Cape Sable. To work, Rolly!”

“Here’s for it !’? was the enthusiastic reply as Ro
land’s head vanished within.





CHAPTER IV.

A WILD OUTSIDE PASSAGE.







a REAKFAST was gotten through
with in a hurry, and then the
2, tents demolished and stowed

7 away.

“Make everything snug,

=~ _,. Rolly, for we’ve got toslip over

— some open work to-day, and its
Eve just possible we may see some
= * wind at sea before we bring up

on the shore of the key we are
aiming for this bright morning in January.”’

Andy’s advice was good, as it generally proved to
be, and his companion did not forget to follow it.

Rolly had had an experience in rough weather upon
Lake Champlain with a loose cargo, and he was apt
to remember it always, seeing that he had come within
an ace of going down. Up went the sails. The gen-
tle breeze filled them as soon as anchors were let
go, and the venturesome young canoeists were off on
their long voyage. All seemed bright and joyous on
this lovely January morning. It would have been
hard to have prophesied evil to. an expedition that
started with such pleasant prospects, and yet it is pos-
sible that had the two skippers been able to have fore-





















































































A WILD OUTSIDE PASSAGE. 27

seen the shadows that awaited them, the grave perils
and narrow escapes that would line the route, they
might have hesitated appalled, and even have changed
their minds. It was well this could not be done, else
this narrative of the lively canoe cruise had never been
written.

The wind could not be more favorable, as it drew
almost squarely out of the south, perhaps S. by W.
It was a gentle breeze as yet, and the light vessels
danced along merrily. How charming it seemed to
lie there and glide along! Rolly watched the island
on which lay Key West until they had cleared it en-
tirely, and were stretching along over the open space
that separated them from the next key.

The Sea Urchin was almost abreast of its companion
craft, and hence the skippers could converse without
much effort. Andy believed in the policy that during
the reign of peace prepare for war.

Acting upon this idea, he arranged a code of signals
with Rolly. The old battered fish-horns were pro-
duced and sounded. One could hear the blast almost
a mile away, and even the roar of a storm could not
have drowned it out.

One blast was intended to signify that the time was
come to turnin, while two meant ‘‘ Go, for all you are
worth.”

The wind freshened. They sped along like wild
birds, skimming the surface of the green billows. It
was exhilerating work, and Rolly enjoyed it. What
fun can be had unless there is a spice of danger con-
nected with it?

Here they were,virtua\\y out at sea in mere cockle-





28 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

shells, so frail that it seemed as though an ordinary bil-
low might slap them to splinters. And such a thing
might occur could the billow get its work in, but they
rode the seas like corks, so buoyant was their construc-
tion.

Fear did not enter into the composition of these
young fellows, and they would never have started
upon such a cruise had it been so, for they knew there
would be hard times ahead—coccasions when things
might seem gloomy enough. They were not reckless,
either, but, without seeking dangers, could bravely
meet and overcome a difficulty when it faced them.

The morning slipped away. Noon came. Itfound
them about half-way between Key West and the low
key for which Andy had been aiming. This seemed
rather poor work, but the wind had flattened out until
it became a mere zephyr, and their progress was very
slow.

The heaving bosom of the Gulf had grown wonder-
fully quiet, until it even looked like a mirror. Andy
had turned his head this way and that while the boats
rubbed together and their skippers ate lunch. He
was wondering from what quarter the new breeze
would arise when it came.

The sun was really hot, and both of them had will-
ingly sacrificed their coats, only retaining trousers
and flannel shirts. Andy was plainly growing uneasy,
and Roland could see it.

“IT can’t stand this. We are losing valuable time.
No one can tell from what direction the wind may
come. It’s as likely to besa head one-as not, so it will
pay us to get as near that key as we can,”



A WILD OUTSIDE PASSAGE. 29

‘Then we must stir up a spruce breeze?”

“That’s the idea.’’

Out came the double-bladed paddles, and the two
canoes were soon cutting a swath through the glassy
sea. This lasted for an hour, and then Andy called out:

“The wind will be from the west when it comes.’’

“ How do you know ?”

“See that dark line of clouds slowly forging up
along the horizon.”’

“ Jupiter ! that means a storm.”

“Very likely,’’? coolly replied the other, ‘and it
would be well for us to be in camp when its full force
breaks upon us.”’

“To work, then. No time to be lost.”’

“There comes the breeze.”

Sure enough, half a mile to the westward -the smooth
surface of the water was broken as by a line, and they
could see the rapid advance of the breeze. They would
get it over the port quarter. Rolly saw how rapidly
the line of clouds was climbing up into the heavens,
and he knew they were in for it.

The paddles were stowed where they could be hand-
ily reached. Then the little craft began to glide for-
ward ; the murmur of the water parting at the bows
made sweet music to their ears, and they moved on in
the direction of their destination, still some miles
away.

A couple of hours of this satisfactory work would
have been all they could have asked, as it would have
landed them at their destination ; but things were not
destined to go on so smoothly.

It was a disagreeable fact, which they could not over-



30 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

come, that the breeze was freshening rapidly. With
it the waves arose. The bosom of the Gulf was no
longer placid and calm, but heaved tumultuously, and
this state of affairs, instead of growing better, promised
to become worse with every passing minute.

Their progress would seem to be fair with such a
breeze, but the waves hindered their movements to
some extent. Both skippers hung well out to wind-
ward, and even then there was danger of the craft
capsizing, so violent were the squalls that struck them
at times.

Andy stretched a point, but finally gave in. Rolly
held out as long as his companion did, but when he saw
that the skipper of the Mabel had stowed his dandy
he hastened to follow suit with a sigh of relief. This
act helped them to a certain extent, but the-wind had
not yet reached its maximum velocity, and it was only
a question of time when they would have to do away
with the other sail also.

To add to Rolly’s alarm, his rudder. was washed
loose and he had to drag it aboard, doing his gs
with the double-bladed paddle.

The dark bank of clouds had now shown their full
strength. Ahead of them flew outriders. It was just
like an army advancing to battle with a cloud of skir-
mishers thrown out in front.

Roland eyed their advance with considerable appre-
hension, for he knew that, strong as the wind was now
it would presently strike them in a severe squall, after
which the storm would shut them in.

He was grit to the backbone, however, and not the
one to prove faint-hearted. Whenever it was possible







“DOWN SAILS, AND TAKE TO THE PADDLE.”








A WILD OUTSIDE PASSAGE. 33

he cast his eyes about him to see how Andy was com-
ing on.

Once he got a glimpse of what seemed to be land
nearly half a mile to leeward. Then they had actually
come abreast of the key, and it was it he saw, covered
with the mangrove bushes that seem to take root any-
where.

This was encouraging, at any rate. Some cruisers
would have tried landing upon the shore after pass-
ing around the key, but there was danger of the squall
driving them beyond, when they would be lost. Andy
preferred meeting the danger boldly and facing the
music. When the proper time came they would go in
ona giant roller with a rush and be landed on the
sandy beach.

Rolly had seen a wreck on the coast some years be-
fore, and vividly remembered the lashing waves, the
launching of the crude life-boat, the signals of distress
from the doomed ship, and the bravery of the fisher-
man’s wife who urged the men to go to the rescue.

Somehow the memory of that stormy night on the
coast haunted the canoeist now in his hour of peril.

Hark! what was the wild clamor that arose above
the whistling of the wind? Rolly knew it proceeded
from his companion’s horn and signified the approach
of the squall. This meant bare poles. Down came the
mainsail in a trice and was secured as best as the cir-
cumstances would allow, and out came the paddle.

Phew ! whata stinger that wind was! Being in the
trough of the sea, the boats escaped its full force, but
even then their skippers were put to their best paces in
order to keep from capsizing.





34 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

It was a trying occasion, but both of them pulled
through all right, thanks to their intimate acquaint-
ance with their boats’ abilities and the knowledge of
what to do in an emergency.

Roland now waited anxiously for the signal that
would mean a new course. Allthe while he wielded
his paddles with astonishing celerity, and kept the Sea
Urchin where he wanted her.

Perhaps they had not seen the worst of the storm
yet. It might increase to such an extent that the ca-
noes would be swamped. Great care had to be taken
now lest they should lose their grip. :

The roar of the surf filled Roland’s ears and he could
see the white foam not seventy feet away. Why did
not Andy give the signal? Every nerve was strained
to the utmost tension. He was eager to be in the
worst. There was an awful fascination about the.long
lines of foamy billows. oe

Ah! the signal at last !- Sharp and clear the double
blast rang out. Rolly set-his muscles for the task be-
fore him, and, with a look of grim determination on his
young face, headed the bow of the staunch little Sea
Urchin for the boiling, heaving surf, darting away on
top of a giant roller with race-horse speed, and pad-
dling for dear life!



CHAPTER V.

STORM-BOUND ON A FLORIDA KEY.

SOLAND struck his paddle in
deeply, and brought every
atom of muscular ability he
possessed into action. He knew
that to carry out the plan
with success he must ride on
that roller through the surf.
The boiling, hissing water surrounded
him, seeming like myriads of serpents
carrying his frail craft onward in their
midst with irresistible power.

The boy’s teeth were set hard, but he
did not forget his business, which was to
use that double blade with desperate zeal, unmindful
of all else.

There went a thrill of deep satisfaction through his
frame when his paddle touched the sand. Overboard
he jumped. The water was not over his knees, for the
wave had very nearly expended its force. He must
drag the Sea Urchin up beyond the reach of the next
wave, which, being a larger one, might overwhelm him.

This being done, he remembered that he had had a






36 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

comrade on this wild ride. Where was Andy and the
Mabel?

“‘Halloo, Sea Urchin! Come to town, eh?” said a

voice near by.
_ Turning his head, Roland saw his friend standing
there with one hand laid affectionately upon the bow of
his faithful little craft, and the other made use of in
lieu of a trumpet; for the wind blew fiercely, seizing
his words and carrying them to leeward.

«What next, Andy?” asked Roland.

“We can’t stay here, that’s sure. Before this thing
blows over it will grow much worse.”

“Tf we could only get to the other side of the key

‘‘ Perhaps that will not be so difficult as you seem to
believe. Take hold and pull the Mabel up further on
the sand. Then we'll perform the same kind office
for the other, after which 1 mean to investigate this
little inlet.”

Roland caught the idea like a flash, and saw what it
promised. The inlet was nothing but a narrow strip
of water a dozen feet in width. It apparently cut the
key into halves, so far as they could see. Once the
canoes were worked intoit, and they could probably
pass to the sheltered side of the key.

No time was to be lost. An investigation speedily
showed them that this was the best thing they could
do, at any rate, so with a will they set to work. When
both boats were launched the skippers embarked.
There was little need of paddles, for both the wind
and the rush of water through the inlet carried them
along.

Andy kept his eyes on the alert, and when they

49?



STORM-BOUND ON A FLORIDA KEY. 37

reached a point where the mangrove bushes sheltered
them in a degree from the violence of the gale, he gave
the signal to land.

Both boys set to work to get things in order, for
there was a promise of rain soon, and although Ro-
land’s experience with sub-tropical down-pours had
been limited, he knew that as a general thing they
were heavy. é

It was of no use trying to put up the canoe-tents,
for the wind was too strong. So things were made as
cozy as circumstances would allow, the canvas hatches
were buttoned down, after the canoes had been made
doubly secure by lines carried to the strong mangroves
on the shore, the anchors having poor holding ground.

These things were not done any too soon, for present-
ly, while the two cruisers were making a cold lunch,
there was a sudden rush, a tattoo upon the decks, and
the rain had come.

This was their first night out, literally speaking, for
the long cruise did not begin until they left Key West.
It would be marked with a white stone in their ac-
count of the trip, for a more uncomfortable night they
could not have passed. The boats were small, and so
crowded with stores necessary on a salt-water cruise
of this kind that our youn g adventurers could only with
difficulty turn around.

It may be believed that Roland found daylight com-
ing again with great pleasure. The rain had ceased
and the clouds passed away, but the wind blew great
guns. As the sea was rolling mountain-high, there
was no use of their thinking about leaving the key
that had given them such friendly shelter,



38 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

It was found possible to start a fire with some wood
picked up here and there, and the balance of the day
was passed in various ways. Toward evening Andy
took an observation, and declared that both wind and
sea were abating.

“We'll be out of this in the morning, Sea
Urchin.”

“Good! This Crusoe life don’t suit me. .A dreary
waste of sand and mud, with a few bushes on it—bah!
I don’t like it.’’

‘* How about being lost in a swamp ?”

‘You would see life there, at any rate—alligators,
birds, and reptiles of all sorts.”

‘‘ Moccasins, for instance—those yellow fellows that
throw themselves into striking attitudes when in the
water.”’

“Wait. Don’t try my nerves now. How about the
tents to-night? My bones ache yet after that close
fit. Is there any hope?”

“Certainly. With a wind dying out, my tent shall
goup. I want some comfort, and there’s little enough
to be gotten out of a night aboard a fifteen-foot canoe,
even under the most favorable conditions.”

It did not take long to get the striped tents in posi-
tion, and, once this was done, much comfort was found
inside.

Andy’s prediction was fulfilled. The strong breeze
‘ died out almost as suddenly as it had sprung up.
Roland, waking up about midnight, poked out his head
to take an observation. All was serene. The moon
shone brightly from an unclouded sky. There was |
even a balmy feeling in the air. Listening, he could



STORM-BOUND ON A FLORIDA KEY. 39

hear the gentle splash of the water on the windward
shore of the key.

“What dye think, Sea Urchin ?’ asked a quiet
voice near by.

There was Andy with his head out of his tent, also
taking a squint at the weather.

“‘T think we'll be away in the morning, and hope
to make Cape Sable by night,” returned Roland.

Andy laughed.

“You're sanguine, my boy, and I hope you won’t
be disappointed, but I know how short-lived each kind
of weather is in Florida. One day up at Jax you’ll be
perspiring like fun at this time of year. In the night
the windows rattle, there is a roar like the rush of an
express-train, and lo! an old friend from above has
swept into town—the North Wind. Probably the next
morning you will find the mercury down several de-
grees below freezing.”’

“Well, I’m off again. I didn’t sleep much last
night, you know.”

“Got used to a hard bed yet?”

' “Not quite. I miss my canoe cushions, but it would
have been folly to have brought them along. These
water-cans take up the space they would occupy.”

“Yes; if the cruise was on fresh water—down the
Mississippi, for instance, like that of our genial friend
and ex-secretary, Dr. Neide—we might have been more
comfortable.’

Roland crawled under his blankets again and went
to sleep, lulled by the gentle motion of the canoe upon
the water of the inlet.

Early on the morning of the 6th the cruisers were



40 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

awake. Preparations were soon under way for break-
fast, for Andy vowed he would not go a boat’s length
until he had broken his fast; while Roland, eager to
take advantage of the beautiful breeze that had
sprung up toward morning, would have started at
once and eaten something while on the way. Perhaps,
under the circumstances, this would have been the
wiser course, but Andy had learned a good deal by
experience, and he could be trusted to come out all
right in the end.

Then the cables and tents were stowed, sails raised
and the mud-hooks taken aboard. In ten minutes
Roland was waving his hand toward the key that lay
astern.

‘‘Fare thee well, and if forever, then forever fare
thee well!’’ he shouted merrily.





CHAPTER VI.

A WET THRASH TO WINDWARD.

ARE off on the bounding
sea. life for me,’’ sang Andy.

Every little while he was
apt to break out into song,
and many a night would his
rich baritone voice arouse
the solemn echoes of the dis-
mal swamps that lay along
their route.

‘“‘ What is the course ?”’ asked Roland.

‘“N. E. by N. as near as I can get it—perhaps a
little further north, half a point or so.’

‘Then, like the Irish navigator, we’ll lash the rud-
der, and stick to the coorse.’ ””

** But his was ‘sou-aist.’ ”’

“That’s small difference. We’ve got our course
and we’ll stick to it. How works the compass ?”’

“ Hairly well, but.the motion of the canoe disturbs
the needle a little.’’

They made fair progress for some time. The
weather was apt to be good for a day or two now,
since the recent storm had cleared the atmosphere.





42 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

All that Andy feared was a change of wind. Should
it whip around to the north they could not expect to
make decent progress.

Fortune favored them toa certain extent, and by
noon they had made good headway. Lunch was
eaten en route with some gusto, since their breakfast
had been an early one. The great trouble with the
boys was that they were nearly always hungry.
There was something in the air that caused them to
consume their provisions at such a rate that Andy
figured they would not last out unless supplemented
with fish, flesh and fowl, which they expected to strike
along the mainland.

About a quarter to three the breeze died out. No
time was wasted in useless whistling, but the double
blades came out, and the canoes cut through the
water like agile fishes.

“See, a shark yonder !” cried Roland.

“Yes, and here comes a school of porpoises. I’ve
seen them rolling in at the inlets along the Atlantic
coast by dozens, when the young flood tide began to
work.”’

‘“‘What is that black-looking object yonder? It
seems to be asleep.”’

“By Jove! as I live, I believe it’s a devil-fish.”

Roland reached under the deck beside him.

“Hold on there! What are you after ?”

“‘ My repeating rifle ”’

‘Let it alone. You couldn’t kill that monster, and
once wounded it might take a notion to destroy our
frail craft. Let it sleep.”

As they sailed past the huge ocean vampire and



A WET THRASH TO WINDWARD. 43

noted its great size, Roland concluded that his com-
panion’s advice was sound. Tt looked like a great
black bat asleep on the surface of the water, and from
tip to tip of its wing-like arms must have measured
twenty feet.

Several hours of this work brought them to a key,
where they made preparations to pass the next night.
Just then, however, a nice breeze sprung up and
Roland looked at Andy.

« An hour of light yet.”

“ There’s another key over yonder, and I am of the
opinion it would be a better place than this for a
camp.”

‘How far do you make it ?”

‘Say five miles.”

«This breeze is too good to be lost. Shall we try
the riffle ?”

“It’s a go.”

Mainsail and dandy were thrown to the wind, and
immediately the twin canoes were tearing through the
water at a lively rate. The wind increased, but the
sea did not get very rough, so that their progress was
exceedingly rapid. In half an hour they rounded
under the lee of the key. The sup was nearly down
when the anchors were thrown out and tents raised.

‘‘ Hand me the shotgun and cartridge belt, Andy.”

‘“What’sup. More devil-fish ? ”’

“Shore birds over yonder. Tide’s going out; I be-
lieve I could pick the bones of a few.”

Getting ashore, Roland crept along back of a fringe
of mangroves, and when within range let fly with both
barrels, the last as the flock arose.



44 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

He picked up seven birds, three being robin snipe,
and the others lesser yellow-legs.

When he got back to where he had left Andy he
found that worthy dragging his boat up on the
sand.

**We’ll cook supper over a camp-fire to-night, my
boy. What! Seven snipe, and yellow-legs too.
Good enough! TI’ll get ’em in order while you pull the
Sea Urchin ashore.”’

“What the deuce !—Andy, have I got a fever, or
what’s the matter with my face and hands? They
smart and burn like fun.”? And Rolly danced about,
while Andy laughed aloud.

“Oh! you must get used to that, old fellow. I’ve
been here before. It’s sand-flies.’’

“Tsee. I’ve laughed to read about them, but the
experience is no funny business. What can we do
about it?”

‘Nothing much. Let it goon. You'll get used to
itin time. They generally only get their work in about
sunrise or sunset. Sometimes they are very bad
just before a storm, and we make a smudge and sit in
the smoke for relief.”

About the camp-fire they talked and smoked and
sang until well into the night. It was strange to hear
Andy’s clear voice trolling over the waters of the Gulf
as he rattled off a rollicking song about ‘‘ the bark that
would tack and the tar come back.”’

Such scenes linger long in the memory, and can be
recalled years hence, when by closing the eyes one can
see the gleaming water, the tented boats, the cheery
fire, and hear the songs that have such a hold upon the



A WET THRASH TO WINDWARD. 45

mind. Many such nights have I passed upon the
Florida coast with cruising friends.

When the morning came the boats were soon in
order for business, and the friendly key left behind.
Their progress had been so fair up to this time that
even sceptical Andrew gave hope of reaching the main-
land ere they camped again.

All went well.

The mainland wasin sight. It looked pleasant after
seeing nothing but a waste of water for a number of
days.

«Will we make it? ”’ asked Roland.

“We must.”

“Tf this wind holds out—”

“That’s just it. I hones it 1s shifting. You see
it comes from the west now.”’

«True enough.”

‘I generally looked for a Norther along the east
coast when the wind got in that quarter. The same
thing may happen here.’’

Should this occur they would be in rather a desper-
ate strait. Hoping for the best, everything that could
be done was brought to bear in order tofurther their
progress. How slowly they neared the mainland! It
looked as though they would never reach it, and yet
the breeze held out and they seemed to be making
fair progress.

Andy’s prediction was fulfilled. About the middle
of the afternoon the wind madea jump and began to
blow out of the north.

“‘ We're in for it, old comrade. Make all snug on
deck and draw your apron about you as well as you



46 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

can. A wet thrash to windward here is not to be
sneezed at.”

“‘ Dangerous, eh ?”’

“Oh! we'll pull through all right. I’m not afraid
of your Corinthian qualities. You will do me proud
before this cruise is over. To work!”

It was a task few young fellows would have liked
to handle, but there was no way to avoid the beat to
windward with a rising sea. Luckily, the first long
tack took them somewhat in the shelter of the land.
They made a short leg of the starboard tack, and then,
coming about again, went on a long port run.

The progress made could be easily seen, and Roland’s
boat proved so stiff and stanch under the work that
he was quite encouraged. Spray splashed over them -
as the wind threw the waves against the exposed side
of the boat, but each had donned an oilskin jacket and
sou'wester, so that they were impervious to water

The work became lighter as they drew nearer the
land, and finally, passing through a stretch of smooth
water, the canoes went ashore.

Both boys.sprang out and drew the dainty craft up
on the mainland of Florida at last.



CHAPTER VII.

ROLAND STRIKES GAME.



e771 DON’T exactly like this place
é for a camp, Andy,” said
Roland. ahs

“Why not?”

‘““Tt’s too exposed to suit
me. I was looking over my
chart a little while ago, and
I believe we are within half
a mile of Cape Sable Creek.”’

“Let me see.”’

Andy looked it up, and agreed that Roland was
right in his conclusions. It was quickly decided that
they should make at least an attempt to gain this har-
bor. After some labor success greeted them, and the
mouth of the creek was reached. It was about twenty
feet wide, but once the opening was passed a splendid
piece of water lay before them, such as they were not
likely to see again for a long while.

Here they spent the night. It was a very comfort-
able one, and in all respects differed from that night
when storm-bound on the outermost of the Pine Keys.



48 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Taking their charts, the boys, by the ent of the camp:
fire, traced their recent course.

“You see, Roland, we first headed north, and then
northeast, passing by that wilderness of keys among
which I did not like to venture. Then we struck al-
most due east, camping last night on this patch of ©
ground, called Center Key. From that our course
here was almost due north.”

“From this on our line will be near the land. The
worst outside work is over.”

“¢ Yes, but there are a number of places where we
will have a run through the open water.’’

“Well, we are equal to it, I reckon.”’

‘““The boats have behaved beautifully. lam proud
of them.”’

«And my courage has been raised to a high pitch
by our success. I confess I had qualms of fear as to
what He result might be, but I am perfectly satisfied
now.’

Their surroundings were of a far different nature
from any they had yet experienced, and both of them
were pleased with the change. Life was to be seen in
all quarters—in the air, the pine woods and the water
of the wide creek.

Innumerable birds, many of brilliant plumage, were
discovered, and Andy presently pointed out a scarlet
flamingo; but it was shy, and although Roland eager-
ly snatched the shotgun up, he was unable to get a
shot at it.

There were a number of queer birds quite new to
Roland. He thought the water-turkey with its long,
snake-like neck, the oddest of all, There were buz-





CAMPING ON T



MAINLAND OF FLORIDA.









ROLAND STRIKES GAME. 51

zards, hawks, man-of-war birds, red and white ibis,
together with others, so.that the evening air seemed
filled with bird life.

Roland was tremendously excited at sight of some
moving object along the fringe of woods. Was it
a panther? They knew this animal prowled through
the woods of Florida, in places far away from civiliza-
tion, and it would not have been very singular to have
run across him here.

It turned out to be a’coon, however. Roland knock-
ed him over, and Andy dressed him. The flesh tasted
like pork, but neither of the boys took a particular
fancy to it.

The mosquitoes proved very troublesome for a brief
time, but the north wind, although not cold, seemed
chilly enough to drive them away.

Through the early night the boys slept soundly.
They had rigged up a rude tent on shore with their

canoe masts and sails, together with a piece of canvas
and a rubber blanket.

In front of this burned the fire.

The tent faced the south, and there was a good rea-
son for this, as the north wind blew the smoke away.
Pine wood is generally used in Florida for camp-fires.
It burns fiercely, emits a tremendous heat, but along
with it discharges a black smoke that plunges every
cooking utensil into mourning. There is no trouble
in cleansing said articles, however, for plenty of sand is
generally to be found, and witha handful of Spanish
moss, that drapes the live oaks and cypress-trees in
all sections, a shine is imparted that would be the
envy of a French cook.



52 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

During the night Roland awoke.

Something seemed to have tapped the canvas tent-
cover a light blow just beside his head. He did not
know whether he had been dreaming or not, and lay
still to listen, although his right hand unconsciously
crept toward the little revolver he carried.

Again it came. At the same time he became con-
scious that the form of an animal was outlined upon
the canvas by the newly-risen moon.

He could not exactly make out what it was, but the
shape suggested the cat species. Was this nocturnal
visitor a panther? Roland felt his heart beat more
rapidly than was its wont, but otherwise he remained
perfectly cool.

There seemed no necessity for arousing Andy, as the
animal would doubtless fly at the first movement of
the kind.

Determined to at least try a shot, Roland worked
his weapon up until he had covered the point that
seemed desirable. Just then the animal tapped: the
canvas again lightly, as though this strange affair
had aroused its curiosity.

Roland pulled the trigger. There was aloud report,
a scream from without, and a shout from Roland’s
fellow-cruiser, who, awakened thus rudely from a sound
slumber, could not help believing that an earthquake
or something siiilar had occurred.

“What's up, Sea Urchin ?’’ he demanded, as he
came in contact with the other.

“Pve shot a panther, I guess,” replied Roland, try-
ing to appear cool.

‘«The deuce you have! Go out and see. Pick up



ROLAND STRIKES GAME. 5S

the shotgun—right barrel has buckshot in it, you know.
Now go it!”

Roland sprang outside. The moon was shining
brightly, the north wind soughed in the pines, but no
living thing appeared to be in sight.

««Where’s your game, Rolly?” called Andy from
the opening of the tent.

«Tt was right here, outlined against the tent. I hit
him, I’m positive, Andy. See, this is blood on the
white sand here. And there’s the rogue crawling
off. Watch me, Andy. Halt! you beggar, or—”’

Roland had thrown the little twelve-bore Parker to
his shoulder, and, as he spoke, pulled the trigger. With
the report the crawling animal was seen to give one
spasmodic leap into the air, and then fell back upon
the sand close to the shelter of the trees it had been
trying to reach. Roland rushed forward and was
soon bending over the prize. It proved to be a wild-
cat of an unusual size ‘for Florida, though Roland had
seen much larger ones up in Canada and Maine woods.

All animals and many birds in Florida are smaller
than specimens of the same spécies found in colder
countries. This is natural, as the natives of a warm
climate never equal those of the cold in stature and
endurance. _

The black bass of the north is a hard fighter and a
game fish of the first caliber. His cbusin of Florida,
though of an enormous size, when hooked comes in
like a log, seldom breaking water. In a few places,
when caught where the water is prackish, he shows
more pluck, but can never be called first-class game.

Roland took one of the wild-cat’s claws as a trophy,



54. PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

to remind him in the future of this midnight adventure |
on Cape Sable. Then the boys retired to rest again.

There was no further alarm, and morning came with

a clear sky. The wind was still strong in the north,

and as progress would be unprofitable, and not pay

, them for their trouble, they determined to remain in

“ camp and await a change in the weather.

Surrounded as they were by good hunting ground,
there was no reason why they should be idle.

So a hunt was organized. Roland took the rifle
while Andy shouldered the Parker.

A code of signals was arranged between them, and
then they set out, each determined to bring some sort
of game into camp. The canoes had been drawn well
up and anchored where no harm could come to them,





CHAPTER VIII.

OFF FOR THE EVERGLADES.








naman

D a:

2

0
»
nf
ot







— 7
PS

LVI? a PT,”
i a

NDY tramped in anortheaster-
ly direction. He saw a num-
ber of squirrels, and might
have laid some of them low,
but he was determined to try
for a turkey.

In the early morning he
had heard a gobble-gobble
away off in this direction, and

felt that if he could get but a shot at the fellow from

whom it emanated it would be all that he might ask.

When he came to what seemed to be a small ravine
in the woods, he followed it up, as the most likely
place to find his game. Finally he squatted down be-
hind a tree and gave a gobble that seemed a fair imi-
tation of the genuine cry.

When he had repeated this several times he was
gratified to hear an answer. So he kept up the little
game, the reply growing more and more distinct as
the bird strutted nearer, anxious to meet itskind. All
at once Andy cocked his head in a knowing way, and
something very like a smile crept over his face.

“ That’s the queerest ola Turk I ever met, and it’s

Sie



ye
Cxe

LPIA






pee

nn
WSS ett Be



SAO VARY Z
i SAE [ZY SRY AY)



BY
ex





56 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

my humble impression there is something of a fraud
about it. Let’s see.’’

He gave another gobble, and wound up with the
bray of a donkey.

‘“‘Halloo there, Mabel/ what are you doing here, and
where’s my fat gobbler?”’

Roland stalked into view, alook of blank amazement
and disappointment on his young face. Andrew burst
out into a laugh.

“You see we’ve been practicing on each other’s cre-
dulity. Another case of a mutual-admiration society,
eh, Rolly ?”

“T never dreamed it was you. Perhaps it’s lucky
you guessed the truth so soon, or possibly some evil
consequences might have followed.”’

“Well, suppose you let turkey-shooting alone to-day
unless you actually see one. There ought to be deer
about here, off to the northwest.’’

«We know there is one at least, as we saw its sign
yesterday evening. I’m off.’’ ;

So Roland stalked away. He walked quite a distance.
The woods were open now, and he could see for a long
space all around him. Further north upon the penin-
sula deer are usually found upon “burns.’”’ These
are patches of land, generally prairie, where the own-
ers of cattle or their cowboys set fire to the old dead
grass and burn it off, for the young green to shoot up
so as to make fresh browsing-places for the animals.

The deer also seek these places, and often to meet
their death, for Seminole Indians hunt them merci-
lessly. Generally those bronzed remnants of a once
glorious tribe hunt in a way that threatens to soon ex-



OFF FOR THE EVERGLADES. 57

terminate the deer of Florida, driving them to a cer-
tain point with a “surround” and big smoke, when
the poor animals are slaughtered, mostly for their

hides alone. i

It was nearly noon when Roland secured along shot
ata small deer. The Colt’s repeating rifle was not
only a powerful shooter but accurate as well, and Ro-
land, being possessed of considerable experience, plant-
ed his bullet where it would do the most good.

When he had dressed his prize for carrying, he plac-
ed it upon his shoulders and started back to camp.
Not until he had tramped for an hour did he realize
that he did not exactly know where the camp lay.

So he stopped to take his bearings, and then once
more moved on. Twenty minutes later he came
to water. It was Cape Sable Creek. Following this
down, he finally sighted. the boats. Smoke was arising
from the shore, and this in itself proved that Andy had
returned before him.

He saw a turkey hanging from one of the paddles
that helped to form the ridge-pole of the rude tent.
Then his companion had not returned without the
game he sought.

** Ahoy there in camp !”

Andrew sprang up.

“Good for you, Sea Urchin ! A whole deer, and you
look hot and tired.”

‘‘Tam. Bless me if I ever try to lug such a fellow
home again. It’s too much.”

They had a royal dinner. When it was over both
lay back fora nap. Roland was a nervous chap, and
could seldom keep quiet long, so when Andy opened



58 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

his eyes later on he found that his fellow-cruiser was
using the cast-net along in the shallow water.

Have you ever seen a cast-net, reader? It is an in-
dispensable adjunct to Florida fishing, as with it alone
mullet can be secured, and this fish forms the food of
almost every salt-water fish to be caught along the
shores of the Pelican State.

The net has a combination of lead weights, and lead-
ing-strings that pass up through a horn ring at the top.
Itis cast with a rotary motion by the aid of hands
and teeth, falls flat on the water, the leads plunge
down, enclosing the fish, and then the net is drawn into
a purse by a pull at the rope.

A little practice makes one fairly proficient in its use.

Roland succeeded in capturing some dozens of mullet,
several of which were of a good size.

“Tsay, Sea Urchin!

“Well, what is it?

‘Look out for your legs. There’s a shark!”

Sure enough, the dorsal fin of a shark could be seen
cutting the water in erratic curves as the monster
hunted a meal in the wide stream, and Roland made a
plunge for the shore.

*“ Would you like to catch that pirate, Rolly ?”

** Decidedly—yes.”

“Then get out your tackle and we’ll have a try at
him.”’

While Roland arranged the large shark-hook and
chain to the end of amanilla rope, Andy pounded down
a snubbing-post on shore. The hook was baited with
a large mullet, and Andy took it outin his canoe, drop-
ping it in the middle of the stream. Before he reached



OFF FOR THE EVERGLADES. 59

the shore there was a bite. Slowly the rope moved
away, stopped, and then again went on.

“Give him a hitch, Rolly.’’

The other let the shark feel the steel, and instantly
there was acommotion. With a great splash the fish
dashed toward the inlet.

“Snub him, quick, or he’ll pull you in! ”

Roland sprang around the post—there was a shock,
and the shark came up all standing. After a severe
strain they drew the dreadful fish near enough to land
for Rolly to send a bullet from the repeating-rifle into
its head, after which it was drawn up on the sand for
examination.

On the next morning, the wind being fair, the two
canoes left Cape Sable Creek and started up the Gulf
coast. There lay before them several hundred miles
of the finest cruising ground in the world, and which
was filled with possibilities such as would thrill the
boldest heart.

Once the Ten Thousand Islands were gained, they
meant to pass up through White Water Bay and feel
their way into that wonderful region of which so little
is really known, and where a cedar canoe had never
cruised before—the lonely lakes, islands and swamps
known as the Everglades of South Florida, the former
home of Osceola and his valiant Seminoles.



CHAPTER IX.

CANOE LIFE AMONG THE KEYS.





T was high noon when Andy worked
near the Sea Urchin and asked
if the young skipper did not
, feel hungry.

"Roland was ravenous. The
;’ Salty air had given him an ap-
“""=" netite the like of which he had
“* never known before; so he an-
nounced himself in splendid
condition to punish something
in the way of food.

‘“What shall it be, a cold lunch or a hot dinner?”
he asked.

Andy looked around toward the shore, near which
they were then sailing.

“See here, we might as well be as comfortable as
possible. We have no need of haste, as the whole
winter lies before us.”

“Just as true as you live. Now, what is it you would
suggest, Andy?”

The other continued the argument to defend his
position, just as if Roland had not readily acquiesced.
It was a way he had,



CANOE LIFE AMONG THE KEYS. 61

“‘T saw the wind was going down. It will rise again
about three- Then I noticed quite a numerous array
of beach birds along the shore. They quite made
my mouth water. See, there goes a flock skimming
along. Halloo! whither bound, Rolly?”

“Tm for the shore. Farewell, fellow-cruiser.”’

“Not much. I’m in that deal myself.”

So both canoes were headed shoreward, and in ten
minutes had run their sharp noses upon the mud flats
that here abounded. Meanwhile each of the boys had
donned a stout pair of rubber boots. These articles
are really an indispensable part of the outfit of a
Florida cruiser, and may be put to a great variety of
uses.

Overboard they tumbled. In another minute the
stanch little craft were drawn up on the muddy
beach. Just back of the spot were the inevitable
mangroves.

It was low tide. At such times the bay birds are to
be found busily engaged upon the mud flats, picking
up morsels of food left behind by the retreating ocean.

“You light the fire, Andy, while I secure our din-
ner,’’ said Roland.

Picking up the little Parker and half a dozen shells,
he was off.

Left alone, Andrew proceeded to get his share of the
affair in working order. He gathered some wood,
such as could be found, using his little camp hatchet
to chop with. -

Soon asmoke curled up and announced that the fire at
least was ready for business. When this duty had been
accomplished Andy got out a sheet-iron frying-pan



62 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

and coffee-pot. Into the former he put a couple of
pieces of salt pork, and allowed it to simmer while he
measured out the water for the coffee from the can in
his boat. :

Just as he was placing the coffee-pot upon a place
prepared for it at the fire where it would soon boil, he
heard two gun-shots, one following close upon the
other.

He smiled, and, holding up his hands, said :

“ T guess seven.”

The minutes passed away. The coffee boiled up
three times, and on each occasion had a dash of cold
water thrown in todampen its ardor. After its last
unsuccessful attempt to froth over it was placed aside
to settle. Already the bacon—as they call salt pork
down there, the other variety going as breakfast
bacon—was sizzling loudly in the pan, asthough im-
patient for its comrades in misery to appear.

Just then came a heavy report close by and Andy
sprang to his feet in some alarm. It was evident his
companion had fired both barrels of the shotgun at
once, and such an unusual occurrence aroused the
curiosity of the cruiser who had remained behind to
start the fire.

He was even meditating upon the advisability of
taking the repeating rifle and running in the direction
from whence the shots had come, when Roland sud-
denly appeared.

The latter had quite a bunch of bay birds fastened
by the heads in a peculiar loop of string. Andy was
surprised, not at the number but variety of his com-
panion’s haul. There were two yelpers also’ known



CANOE LIFE AMONG THE KEYS. 63

as the greater yellow-legs, robin snipe, a red-breasted
sandpiper known by this name along the Jersey and
New England coasts, one krieker (also a sandpiper),
and three jack curlew.

“Nine in all,”’ said Roland, as, with an expression
akin to disgust, he tossed gun and birds down.

“Come, what’s wrong?” asked Andy, as he pro-
ceeded in lightning style to prepare a robin snipe for
the pan. :

“T’m mad, and that’s a fact. Catch me ever going
without a buckshot cartridge again.”

Andy looked up quickly.

“* Ah! then you did fire that double load at big game.
What was it—a wild-cat?”?

“No, a deer.”

“ Jupiter ! so near the camp ?”

“Yes, and a beauty of a mark, but too far for
number eight shot, you know. I had plenty of time
to slip them in both barrels, and they might as well
have been buckshot. Then we'd have had game for
dinner that was worth something.”’

“It is a lesson, anyway, Andy. Come, we’ll fix the
shells in the belt so that an y one taking the Parker out
will be supplied for an emergency.’

Roland brightened up under this inspiration and
even set to work upon a krieker. It was not lon g& be-
fore such of the birds as they desired were sputtering
in the pan. Then condensed milk, ship biscuit and a
few other things were produced from the lockers of
the canoes.

“* Just as I predicted,” said Andy, as they sat down,
tailor fashion, to dinner.



64 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Following the direction of his finger, Roland saw
that the wind had almost completely died out, and the
Gulf was rapidly growing calm.

They had not lost much time in deciding to come
ashore and have a cooked dinner.

When the meal was over they lay back and enjoyed
themselves basking in the warm sunshine, and won-
dering what their friends up North were doing on this
ninth day of January—for this was the day they left
Cape Sable Creek.

“ Shoveling snow, I warrant,’ remarked Roland,
and both boys laughed at the conceit.

They considered themselves as exceedingly fortunate
in being permitted to knock around in such a genial
climate while their friends were being half frozen at
home.

Before three o’clock a breeze started up, and both
canoes were soon making good time along the coast.
As the breeze was light, they brought every inchof
sail to bear.

The miniature craft bowled along quite merrily,
while their daring and light-hearted skippers sat aft,
bracing themselves against the dandy masts and en-
joying themselves hugely.

This was one of the pleasant spots to be marked with
a blue cross in the log of the cruise. There were
enough shadows along the course to make the con-
trasts decidedly interesting.

By and by the wind took a notion to increase its

‘force. Roland shifted his weight to the weather rail,
and kept a watchful eye upon the Mabel, which was
about seventy feet ahead of him,



CANOE LIFE AMONG THE KEYS. 65

When he saw Andy stow his dandy he immediately
followed suit. Already quite a little sea had been
kicked up. The cedar boats started along like birds
upon the wing.

The breeze was growing too strong for even the main-
sail, and Roland was glad to see his companion come
to this conclusion and round-to for the purpose of tak-
ing in a double reef.

Thus both craft were together when they started
out oncemore. Andy had shouted out his plan to his
comrade, who approved of it.

Although the sky was clear, the breeze kept on in-
creasing until Roland feared his mast would be
blown from its socket or something give way. As
before, he was delighted with the working of the Sea
Urchin. She rode the heavy swells with the buoyancy
of aduck, and recovered almost instantly whenever a
counter sea slapped her heavily on the planking.

Nevertheless her skipper looked longingly ahead to
where a key was to be seen, and speculated upon the
probability of their reaching it without an accident.

They approached the key with racehorse speed. It
was not Andy’s intention to land, however, for the
waves dashed madly over the muddy beach, throwing
clouds of spray over the mangroves.

Thousands of great birds soared through the air
above; cormorants, man-o’-war birds, ospreys, buz-
zards, eagles and even others. Upon the mangroves
could be seen many water-turkeys, that queerest of
all queer birds in Florida, while pelicans rode the great
waves all around the boats with as much unconcern as
so many corks.



66 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

The canoes were now steered so as to enter the pass
between the key and the mainland. Here the force of
the wind was broken and the water comparatively quiet.
This is one of the best features of cruising along the
Gulf coast, although there is considerable outside work
* tobe done. The gulf is generally calm, or at least only
a favorable breeze blowing. Should a storm come up,
one can at almost any time get under the lee of a man-

‘grove key. Indeed, the larger part of the cruising is
done in the broad or narrow channels lying between
these keys and the mainland.

On the Atlantic coast it is different. There is a
dangerous outside passage, with no harbor, between
Matanzas inlet at St. Augustine and that of Mos-
quito inlet above New Smyrna. Then comes another,
south of Jupiter inlet to that of Lake Worth. An-
other long and dangerous outside run, exposed to the
sudden fury of the treacherous Atlantic, is the passage
between Lake Worth and Biscayne Bay. Taking it
all in all, the Atlantic coast does not offer half the
advantages to the enthusiastic canoeist that he will find
from Cedar Keys to Cape Sable along the Gulf shore.

Once in this sheltered water the boys sailed along
for quite a while in comfort, until the day began to
wane. The key also came to an end, and a sight of
the white caps and billows beyond warned the young
cruisers that it was time to wind up their day’s run.
It had been a profitable day, as splendid progress had
been made.

Soon the canoes headed in shore, and the boys used
their eyes to advantage looking for a snug cove where
they could anchor for the night.



CHAPTER X.

THE MUTTERING IN THE AIR,





— KS ye
A.M PD , 5 a
Set ae ERE we are, comrade.
We

NS Roland urged the Sea Urchin
Â¥ into the cove he had found, and
Andy followed suit. A glance
around showed them that it was a
splendid harbor, almost land-locked.
They selected positions and cast their an-
chors. The mud hooks could be changed
when they were about to retire. Meanwhile
they desired to remain alongside and chat
; while they ate their evening meal.

Such a life as our two boys were now leading would
do wonders for a dyspeptic. The open air, healthy ex-
ercise and salty breezes developed what was really an
abnormal appetite in the cruisers, so that it would be
folly in our omitting everything that pertained to their
meals, when the preparation and demolition of them
occupied such a large share of their every-day atten-
tion.

Truth to tell, there was much of interest in the
unique manner of their doing their culinary labors.
Andy was a bright student, and developed resources
that no one would have believed lay in a boy’s mind.








68 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

He loved to meet a difficulty face to face and solve
the secret.. Sometimes this was done as Alexander of
old cut the Gordian knot, with a blow of his sword.
That was his way of brushing difficulties aside.

The reader will forgive us if we go into detail occa-
sionally with regard to what was upon the canoe bill of
fare, as information may thus be imparted that would
be valuable to any intending cruiser.

Supper over, the boys lay back and talked awhile
as they smoked their pipes. The tents had been put
up aS soon as anchors were cast out. Inside of each
was the mosquito net of coarse cheese-cloth, which
would pretty effectually exclude any insect pest they
might run across.

They certainly came into use on this night, for the
mosquitoes were plenty. Andy pronounced the ma-
jority of them “ blind’? mosquitoes and harmless ;
but there were a few of the vicious kind, so it would
pay them to be careful.

Each of the canoeists kept a separate log in which
the stirring events of the day were jotted down on
each evening while fresh in the memory. Thus, if one
of the books were lost, the log of the cruise would still
remain.

The log written up, each of them did a little in the
line of correspondence, the letters being mailed at the
first available opportunity. There was no chance
ahead for many weeks to come, but they might meet
a sponger or turtler bound for Key West at any time,
and the skipper of which would gladly mail their let-
ters.

Such accommodation is common along the coast of



THE MUTTERING IN THE AIR. 69

Florida, where one meets genial fellows, though un-
couth many of them may be.

‘Nine o’clock, comrade,’? sung out Andy from
within the recesses of his tent.

‘¢Time to anchor out for the night, and then fora
jolly sleep,’ returned Roland.

Andrew remained where he was, but his comrade
pulled off some twenty feet, when he threw his anchor
out. This gave them plenty of swinging room. Ina
short time both weary cruisers were far gone in the
land of Nod.

Roland was awakened by awild flapping of his tent.
He noticed that the little Sea Urchin was bobbing up
and down in a way suggestive of quite a heavy sea.

Something had occurred to change the looks of
things since they retired.

It was beautifully clear overhead—indeed, as Roland
poked his head out he thought he had never seen the
stars shine more brilliantly.

‘“*Halloo, Sea Urchin Ll’

Ah! Andy was on the alert. Looking over to his
boat, Roland could just make out the head of his
‘friend poking out.

““ What’s the row, Andy ?”’

“The wind has whipped around due 6H. by E. I.
never dreamed it would happen. We are exposed
here. No danger, but it’s rather unpleasant to have
your tent flapping so wildly about your ears. Shall
we change anchorage ?”’

“Yes. I’m going to pull over to the mangroves
yonder and tie up to one of them until morning.”

“ Bright thought, my boy. I’ll follow suit.”



70 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

In this position they were sheltered from the wind
in its new quarter, and the balance of the night was
spent comfortably.

With the morning they prepared to move on.
Knowing the month so well, Andy believed it was
time for another Norther. This was what bothered
them the most of all. Roland was overhauling his
kit and repacking ina more compact shape when he
was startled by the loud report of the Colt’s rifle.

“Got him,” said Andy quietly.

_ There was a fluttering in the air, and a great crane
fell almost at their feet. Andy had made a very neat
wing shot with the rifle, something to be proud of.

“‘ How Id like to stuff that fellow !” said Roland, as
he, spread out the wings and looked at the yellow-
green legs; “‘but there’s no need of it—we can get
more later on.’’

‘*Yes, wait until we strike a roost in the Ever-
glades.”’

“A ‘roost’? What is that ?”

“Where thousands of birds come together to roost
for the night. It is generally some favored spot
where the trees are more than ordinarily heavy, for.
the weight of these great birds is enormous.’

“Ts it not their nesting place, then ?”

“Oh! no. That is a separate place entirely. Per-
haps we may have an opportunity of seeing such a
roost before we are done.”

All was soon in readiness for business. They start-
ed, filled with anticipations of pleasure for the day.
Everything seemed so lovely, one could hardly believe
evil would follow.



THE MUTTERING IN THE AIR. 74

Andrew, however, knew something of Florida cli-
mate. He had learned one great fact—never to trust
to appearances there. The fairest of days was apt to
be succeeded by the wildest of windy nights, so sud-
denly does the terrible Norther sweep down upon them.
Andy had figured that one of these storms was about
due, and he kept his weather-eye open for it, as he de-
clared.

If they could only be in safe quarters when it arriv-
ed, let it howl; but to be caught out upon the open
water would be both unpleasant and dangerous.

Their progress was slow. The breeze came in fit-
ful gusts. More than once they were compelled to
take to their paddles in order to move, when the dying
wind left them in the middle of the broad sound
stretching between some outlying key and the’shore.

They knew they must be near the wonderful conglom-
eration known as the Ten Thousand Islands. This
was an object in view. It marked the entrance to the
bay which they must enter in order to reach the Ever-
glades.

Their charts were not complete, and as to being per-
fect such a thing was really impossible, considering the
tremendous difficulties in the way of the men who
made the Government survey. They would prove a
great help, however, in navigating that wonderful mass
of water and vegetation.

Slowly their day passed by.

Andrew, being on the alert, was the first to discover
signs of clouds banking in the north. He drew the at-
tention of his companion to them.

“ That means business, comrade.”





72 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

‘When will it strike us, do you think ?”’

“By midnight, I should judge.”

- We'll beprepared,’’ returned Roland philosophi-
cally,

He was growing accustomed to such storms by this
time. They failed to arouse any decided alarm or even
interest in him.

That afternoon they fastened up behind a very small
island of mangroves. It was the only thing that pre-
sented itself. Tents went up, and soon the cheerful
odor of the evening meal could be discovered in the
still air. After this had been finished the boys pre-
pared for the night. It was the same thing over
again.

‘When Roland looked out for the last time ere surren-
dering himself, rescue or no rescue, into the keeping of
the drowsy god, the skies were fair. It seemed to
him that there was a far-off murmur in the air, but
this might have been only the droning of insects among
the mangroves, or perhaps the pounding of water upon
the shore at some distant point where the wind had
started into life again. Roland turned in, and in
five minutes he was fast asleep, dreaming of his far-
away Northern home.



CHAPTER XI.

STRIKING THE SILVER KING.

ITH a screech and a roar the
Norther broke upon them an
hour after midnight. Roland
sprang up to a sitting posture,

N\ His tent was flapping wildly,

— and to his consternation he

== discovered that he was mov-

ing through the water.

The alarming truth burst upon him—he was drag-
ging his anchor, and would soon be out upon the open
water. So long asthe anchor served as a drag the
bow was presented to the wind and it would not be so
bad ; but let it slip off into deep water, and the canoe,
presenting her broadside to the gale, would be readily
overturned.

These things flashed through the boy’s mind with
the rapidity of thought. Something must bedone, and
that immediately.

Inspired by the occasion, Roland seized upon his sec-
ond anchor. While he opened the flukes the wind was
singing in his ears like a nest of mad hornets. Still
he preserved his self-possession, and this was what
saved him.







14. PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

No sooner was the little Chester anchor, attached as
it was to another cable, rigged, than Roland unbutton-
ed the fore part of the tent and cast it out.

All was inky darkness. The wind howled and the
water already rolled along with a savage hiss. Speed-
ily the cable was paid out. To the delight of the cast-
away, it held. The canoe no longer moved through the
water.

This was good enough so far as it went, but Roland
knew much more had to be done. He quickly stowed
away his blankets and reached for his oilskins.
When he had donned these he was ready for the busi-
ness in hand.

The tent was stowed away with some difficulty, and
an apron buttoned over the cockpit. While engaged
in this work Roland saw a light upon the water ahead.
It cheered him, knowing that it proceeded from the
tent of his comrade. He took hold of his horn, and
blew a blast upon it that reached Andy’s ear, for he
answered it.

Now began the work of regaining his former posi-
tion behind the mangrove island.

A paddle would not have done the business, for he
could not have done more than held his own against
such a sea and wind.

Luckily there was another method of accomplishing
the same thing. Roland drew in the useless anchor.
Then he began to shorten the cable of the other. The
tent being down, the strain amounted to very little now,
so that he was able to accomplish his purpose. When
almost above the holding anchor he heaved the other
ahead just as far as his arm could do it.



STRIKING THE SILVER KING. 15

Thus, a dozen feet or soat a time, the energetic
young cruiser worked his way back to where the
Mabel bobbed at her anchorage. He tied up to the
mangroves, cast a stern anchor out, and then began
to put up his tent again, for the rain was coming
down quite lively.

‘Well done, Rolly!’ said Andrew, when, by the
light in the Sea Urchin’s tent, he knew all was snug.
’ It had been quite an exciting episode for Roland,
and he had come out of it with honor.

The Norther proved to be short-lived. Perhaps the
very ficrceness of its assault caused it to blow out so
speedily. When morning came it had settled down to
a steady breeze a point or so north of N. H.

The boys concluded that there was no further need
of their hugging the little mangrove island when they
had a chance of beating to windward.

So they put off about eight o’clock. A long lez was
taken on the starboard tack, and then a whip across
to the east until within a short distance of land. Then
another long leg of several miles was made. This
brought them to noon, and, anchoring near a key, they
ate a cold lunch.

When they were ready to move again, the wind was
coming directly out of the east. This was a favorable
breeze for progress with them, and the rest of the day
was put to good service.

That night they ran up a little creek that was dis-
covered by accident. Andrew bent over and tasted of
the water when they had gone up for a little distance..

“* Almost fresh, I declare!”

“Yes, and there is a perceptible current setting in



"6 PADDLING IN FLORIDA,

toward the Gulf, although the tide is on the young
flood.””

“That means one of those splendid, mysterious
streams flowing out of the ground, such as the great
Silver Spring at the head of the Ockawaha river, or
Crystal Spring on the Gulf hamak below Cedar
Keys.”’

“Ts it far away, do you suppose? ”’

“‘T do not think so. We will paddle up as far as
we can, and in the morning make a determined effort
to find it. To fill our cans with clear, fresh water now
would be a blessing.”’

In the morning the bubbling, boiling spring was
discovered, and every available receptacle filled, for
it would probably be weeks ere they could secure more
of the same sort.

“Look yonder, Andy! Smoke, I declare! I wonder
what’s up? Some one has a fire. Suppose you take
the gun and investigate.”’

Nothing loth, the older cruiser pulled on his rubber
boots and went over the knoll. The smoke came from
the foot of a great tree.
Andy guessed the truth.

“Jove! a honey-gatherer. There he comes down
the vines that hang to the tree.’’

Sure enough, a native ‘‘ cracker ”’ with a pack-basket
on his back came slipping down. The honey-gatherer
was a queer fellow, half-witted, and actually dangled
an old Confederate sword at his heels; but he was
death on bees, and had gallons of the wild honey stored
in his old boat, hidden near by. Andy bought a can
and lugged it over to the canoes. They kept an eye





“The honey-gatherer was a queer fellow, half witted, and actually
carried an old Yonfederate saber dangling at his heels,”







STRIKING THE SILVER KING. 79

out for bees themselves, and later had a chance to lay
in a store of honey.

So they set out for open water again and paddled
to the mouth of the little stream, where, finding things
favorable, they threw both mainsail and dandy to the
breeze, standing over in a westerly course for the low
key that seemed to be a mile from the shore, but
which was in reality two of them.

The day was one of disappointments, and yet they
managed to make pretty good time, so that,as evening
drew on, Andrew, consulting his chart, declared an-
other day would see them at the point where they
meant to leave the Gulf.

This was cheering news to them, for like all persons,
they liked a change. Perhaps before they had been in
the swamps long they would wish themselves once
more on the salt water of the Gulf.

Roland as yet had found neither the time nor oppor-
tunity to do much fishing.

It was not from lack of fish, for at times they fairly
made the water boil, such were their numbers and
ferocity.

_ Especially was this the case when they were near an
inlet where the waters of the Gulf at flood tide rushed
into the more quiet lagoons near by.

There one could haul in many varieties of fish with
hardly an effort save that of tugging at the line.

Andy had a big record in this line, but Roland had
much to learn, though a true disciple of Isaac Walton.
He had fished many a time in Northern waters and
was well acquainted with the various finny members
of the various streams,



80 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

That evening, after an early supper, Roland got out
his fishing tackle and prepared to try for big game.
He baited the large hook and cast it over, having
seen a number of fins in the shallow water, which Andy
told him belonged to that silver king, acrobatic leaper,
the tarpon.

The sun had set. A golden radiance seemed to hang
over the western heavens, and upon the still waters
an air of solitude reigned, broken only by the splash
of the mullet or the cry of some hungry bird of prey.

A pelican came sailing along close to the water,
with broad wings extended, and eye on the alert for
a good spot to drop in order to get his fill of small
mullet.

Outside a school of porpoises went rolling by, leav-
ing quite a wake behind.

It was a dreamy scene. They had come to some
live-oak trees and fastened up under them. The long,
pendent moss was swaying to and fro as the wind
came gently higher up among the trees, although
scarce a ripple was upon the water.

Falling into a sort of reverie, Roland was suddenly
aroused by feeling the line slowly taken from his
hands. He had a strike. To give line was his first
thought, and presently the fish had taken thirty feet
or more.

Then came a pause. Roland knew the time had
come to sink the barb home. He tightened the line
and then struck.

There was an immediate commotion in the water.
The line ran off the reel like lightning fora few seconds.
Then the water parted and the great silvery fish



STRIKING THE SILVER KING. 81

sprang several feet up into the air, shaking his head as a
terrier would shake a rat.

Roland had been well coached. He gave a slack
line as soon as he saw the fish leave the water, and
hence it was impossible for the tarpon to dislodge the
hook.

Then he went spinning through the water again.
Roland had been prepared for the emergency. He
had a buoy fastened to his anchor. All he had to do
was to cast the cable off, and the canoe was free to
follow at will. :

He tightened up the line. The stout rod bent but
did not break. Hurrah! he was off. The Sea Urchin
was gliding through the water, propelled by fish
power—Neptune drawn by dolphins over again.

When the tarpon pulled too hard and the strain
became great, Roland gave him line, to recover it later
whenever the chance occurred.

Again and again the magnificent game fish sprang
out of the water, disclosing his whole proportions in
the air. Once he actually leaped over the canoe. As
time went on he showed sigus of becoming wearied, so
that finally the young sportsman was enabled to sink
the gaff into his side and kill him,

It was a great capture.

When they came to measure the fish it lacked but
two inches of being six feet in length, and the boys,
giving a rough guess, judged that he weighed over
one hundred and twenty-five pounds.

Roland was tired out. He fished no more that
evening. Andy had occupied his time pulling in
Sheepshead, so that they had more than enough for



82 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

breakfast. Among the other fish were several cre-
valle, and a peculiar one which Andy called a sergeant
fish. It had a stripe running along its side like a bar,
but it was full of bones and of no account as a food fish.

Again they were on the move as morning came, and
working along they managed to make fair headway.
Andrew had his eyes fastened upon the mass of vege-
tation ahead. He consulted hig chart frequently, and
seemed satisfied with the progress they were making.

“ Alabama—here we rest, Rolly,” he cried, at about
four o’clock, as he ran the nose of the Mabel close up
to one of the numerous mangrove islands among which
they had now entered.

“ For to-night ?”’

“Yes; and we might as well stow masts and sails
away for some time, as I do not believe we will have a
chance to sail again soon.”

““Then paddling is the word.”

“Yes. We must depend on spruce blades among
these islands and the Everglades. In the morning we
will start inland.”

Roland was thrilled with the thought of the new
scenes and adventures that awaited them on the
morrow,



CHAPTER XII.

THE FIRST ALLIGATOR SERENADE.

WL HEY sat up quite late that
night, talking over events that
Sah WAY had happened in the past. An-
ING ere drew had seen considerable in
life. His disposition was a rov-
ing one, and yet he managed to
pick up a wonderful amount of
knowledge for so young a fellow.

It would be hard to talk upon any subject
with which he was not familiar, and as a
canoe cruiser he had spent much time upon
the waters. He could tell of cruises in
Maine, moose-shooting away up in the wilds of New
Brunswick, adventures out in the Rocky Mountains,
and of his trips upon the waters of the Mississippi
basin.

It may readily be supposed that he was a most
agreeable companion to have along. In times of emer-
gency he was full of expedients, and no difficulty
seemed able to stagger him. Indeed, seeing the light
of determination flash over his strong young face when
Some trouble came in their way, Roland actually: be-
lieved his companion really enjoyed a tussle with Fate,





84: PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Andy was modest withal. He generally related
what he had seen, although now and again an adven-
ture of his own crept in.

So they sat up late, talking of home and the past.
On the morrow they would part from the Gulf, with
its salty breezes, and begin a new experience, working
through swampy regions toward the wonderful Ever-
glades, where the last remnants of the once powerful
Seminoles had their homes.

The air was so balmy they seemed to enjoy every
breath they drew. It was glorious. And yet they dis-
liked leaving the Gulf. It was like parting from an
old friend. Neither expressed any desire to back out,
as their course was laid.

“ Good-by, old Gulf!” cried Roland in the morning
as he waved the broad expanse of water farewell with
his paddle raised in the air.

‘<7 hope we will see it again ere many weeks, when
we pass Fort Myers and come out at Punta Rassa,
where lies the mouth of the Caloosahatchee River.’’

The paddles dipped into the water.

They were off !

Andrew took the lead. Together they had studied
the charts on the previous night. The route had been
laid out, although of course it was subject to change.
Something might occur, so that they would want to
alter it. Under such conditions they meant to be gov-
erned by circumstances. As the sun arose and began
to get in his work, the day gave promise of being a hot
one. Our cruisers soon discarded coats and shoes, and
worked quietly with the spruce blades.

They were inno hurry. The whole winter lay be-



THE FIRST ALLIGATOR SERENADE. 85

fore them, so to speak. It was better to go slow and
make sure of their way. Too much haste might bring
them into some difficulty that would cause a waste of
time and no little confusion.

Even with the utmost caution, it will be seen later
that the boys lost themselves in that labyrinth whith-
er they were now bound.

The boats were well provisioned for the cruise, and
as they could eke out with game on the way there was
no danger of starvation. Water was what trouble@
them the most, or rather the scarcity of it. True, they
would be surrounded by fresh water at all times, but
to drink much of this was to invite an attack of ma-
laria or else some break-bone fever.

One way it might be utilized in case they had to come
to it, as was very likely to happen. When boiled, the
disease germs it contained would be destroyed, and it
could then be drank with impunity.

At noon they had made fair progress, and both of
them were satisfied with the work done. They were
still among the Ten Thousand Islands. The water was
salty, although not so much so as when upon the Gulf.

After a cold lunch the work was resumed and pro-
gress made. The scenery around them was far from
being beautiful. It consisted of sluggish water, mud-
flats and mangrove islands.

They were hemmed in all day with theselatter. In-
deed, at times their passage seemed blocked ahead, but
the chart, such as it was, helped them amazingly, and .
the trouble was brushed aside.

These mangroves are peculiar things. Down in this
region they assume the respectability ofa tree. Away



86 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

up on the Halifax River, on the east shore around Day.
tona, they are bushes. Their size appears to increase
with the more tropical climate. They love the water,
and are generally found where the tide will cover their
gnarled roots when at the flood. At ebb tide one can
walk upon these interlaced roots for miles. See how
wonderfully nature provides for their propagation !
The seed is like a verylarge cigar. "When ripe it falls,
sharp end down, into the soft mud below, and takes
root quickly. Any other kind of seed would be washed
away. Some plants drop their seed in the shape of a
light ball, which is dashed along by the wind until it
reaches some damp place suitable for growth, when it
takes root. Others, like our common thistie, have the
seed blown through the air to distant parts. These
plants desire to scatter, while with the mangrove it
is an object to concentrate.

At night the little canoe fleet—if one can so term the
expedition—tied up to the mangroves. The mosquitoes
were found to be so furious, however, that the boys
changed their location, this time anchoring in the mid-
dle of a wide lagoon. There was no danger of being
swept away by a wind-storm here.

Nothing unusual happened on this night, and with
the dawn of another day they were again ready to pro-
ceed. The morning opened with a cloudy sky, and all
day it was threatening, but the rain did not descend
until nearly night. Then the boys had to make haste
to get the tents up in order to spare themselves wet
jackets.

It was chilly enough to make it comfortable in the
boats with the battery of flamme force lamps going.



THE FIRST ALLIGATOR SERENADE. 87

Over these they cooked their supper. Roland made a
canoeist’s stew out of corned beef hashed up, some suc-
cotash and a small amount of crumbled ship biscuit ta
thicken it with. A cup of tea followed, and warmed
Roland up better than any other stimulant would have
done.

One thing the boys disliked about the canoes. They

were so small and crowded with necessary things that
there was no more room than the law allowed when
the tent was strung up. A single-handed cruiser, say
of five by sixteen, would have been large enough for
both to have come together, after the labors of the day
were over, and spent a comfortable evening in compa-
ny. As the next best thing they generally drew along-
side,and, keeping the mosquito netting down, conversed
from behind it. The rain kept up at intervals all that
night. When morning came it gave promise of being
anasty day. The wind seemed to be S. W., veer-
ing to W. Clouds hung low over them, and all day
this thing kept up.
’ Our boys, however, were no mollies. They declared
that they were not made of salt. Stowing things away
thoroughly, and buttoning the aprons over the cockpits
forward, they took hold inearnest. The paddles played
pretty much all day.

It was a wet thrash. Sometimes the wind literally
picked the water up and threw it afterthem. Luckily
they had it at their backs, and progress was much
easier than it would otherwise have been.

Both were glad when the day drew near its end and
they found a good place to lay up. They had reached
about the last of the mangrove islands. It was some-



88 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

thing which Andrew had reason to be proud of—navi-
gating the intricate passages of this labyrinth without
losing his reckoning once.

On the following day they hoped to begin their jour-
ney up the stream, at the mouth of which they were
anchored. It was down upon the map, and from ac-
counts he had heard, and the situation of certain things,
he believed it would lead them to the grassy waters of
the basin beyond—the lonely expanse of wilderness
called the Everglades.

During the night the wind shifted to the north.
There was a heavy thunderstorm about eight or nine
o’clock, but later on the clouds passed away and
the stars appeared. Andrew took an observation
about midnight and found the breeze strong in the
north.

During the whole of the next day they fought breeze
and current, although the latter did not amount to a
great deal.

New sights came to them as they progressed.
Birds that they had not seen along the coast were
here in the swamps, some of them possessing brilliant
plumage.

Roland secured a scarlet ibis, which gratified him
exceedingly, while Andy shot ata wood ibis, but the
bird was too far distant and flew on, though a falling
feather told he had not passed unscathed.

They kept a bright lookout for that remarkable
bird with the bright plumage and long legs, the scar-
let flamingo, but the bird-hunters have made this
beauty very scarce in even the wildest parts of Flor-
ida. Only once on his trip did Roland see this tall



THE FIRST ALLIGATOR SERENADE. 89

bird, and he was ready to go to great trouble in order
to secure a specimen of it.

When they drew their boats up that night, it was
upon a small island where grew asingle tree. Roland
climbed up and cut off some dead branches, which
would give them firewood the whole night. Andy had
a twinkle in his eye that his companion did not under-
stand, though he had a lurking suspicion that the
other was up to some mischief.

‘Shall we sleep on shore or in the boats, Andy ?”

“« Just as you say.”

“Well, do you know, this little island looks so
smooth and nice, I reckon we couldn’t do better than
to camp right here for the night. I get terribly
cramped in the boat.’’

“« Ditto! Come, carry the duffle ashore.”

The tent was made up. Roland saw that his com-
panion was more than ordinarily careful about ar-
ranging things before leaving the canoes, even hauling
them up on the bank further than seemed necessary.
He knew what it meant later. They lay down to
Sleep, Andrew with the rifle beside him.

“What in the world is this for, Andy? Do you
look for a wild-cat in the night? One would think we
might be safe from them here in the middle of the
drink.”

Andy grunted a reply and rolled over.

Some time later Roland was aroused from sleep by
a dream he had. Instantly he sat up. What in the
world was that noise? At first it came like a tremu-
lous grunting of some giant bull frog. Then camea bel-
low such as a bull would have uttered. Others joined



90 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

in, until Bedlam seemed to have been let loose.
Roland was really alarmed. Coming so soon
after a realistic dream, it seemed enough to startle
one.

“For goodness’ sake, what wild menagerie of bulls
has swooped down on us now ?”’

“ How d’ye like the serenade, Rolly ?”

«¢ Abominable !”’

“Well, you’ll have to get used to it.’

«« What is it—panthers or what ?”’

“ Bulls, my boy.”

*‘ Down here in this swampy region ? ”’

“‘Oh! they live in the water part of the time.”

«* Andy, you’re chaffing me.”

“ Alligator bulls.”’

Roland laughed.
- “JT see. Stupid that Iwas not to guess the truth
before! What a tremendous noise they keep up !
There’s nothing like getting used to a thing, I sup-
pose.”’

“« That’s logic.”

“No danger ?”’

‘“Not a bit. The fire keeps them away, and I have
just replenished it.”

“Then I’m off again.”

Roland rolled over and went to sleep. He did not
awaken again until morning, and then it was time to
getup. The alligator chorus had kept up through the
night, from a troubled grunt all the way up the
gamut to a terrific bellow.

“What's the cause of all this, Andy ?” asked the
other, as he watched the coffee boil up for the third



THE FIRST ALLIGATOR SERENADE. 91

time, and then, dashing it with a little water, took it oft
‘the fire.

“Just this, Rolly. The island is a favorite place
of theirs. That’s what makes it so smooth. They
were troubled to see the fire on it, That's all,”





CHAPTER XIII.

A NIGHT VISITOR.

HEY were now entering upon
a new phase of their wonder-
ful cruise. The mangrove
islands became a thing of the
past. In their place they
found islands and the main
shore covered with a growth

of timber, most of which appeared to be pine, though

at times they could distinguish other varieties.

The soil looked black. It was unlike the sandy
loam of higher portions of Florida, and appeared as
though it had been subject to an annual overflow
until of recent years. Perhaps the digging of the
great canal that let the waters of Okeechobee reach
the Gulf and drained the neighboring country had af-
fected even this remote region southwest of the Ever-
glades.

Game became more abundant. They hada chance
at adeer about ten o’clock in the morning. Roland
was paddling along in the lead, when, upon turning a
bend, he saw a deer standing at the edge of the
stream. Instantly he dropped his paddle and put his
hand under the deck for the Colt’s rifle. The deer





A NIGHT VISITOR. 93

seemed surprised at first, but immediately took the
alarm.

As Roland drew the gun out, the wary animal
sprang off into the bushes with flag erect. Roland
sent a bullet after him, but he did not believe he struck
home. So confident was he regarding this that he did
not even think it worth while to go ashore to find out.

Alligators were plentiful. They saw them every-
where. When a bend was turned great fellows slid
into the water from the low banks where they had
lain basking in the sun. Sometimes they floated upon
the creek like great logs.

More than once the boys prodded some sleeping
saurian that had not noted their approach. Evidently
the alligator hunter had not been in this region to any
extent.

Birds were also seen in abundance. Andy bowled
over a couple of ducks neatly, and they were found to
be of a fair quality when they came to eat them.

Raccoons are met with in great plenty all through
the woods of Florida. - The negroes delight in their
flesh, but to one born without this liking for a’coon its
meat tastes like very rich pork and is not relished.

Squirrels were seen from time to time. The fox-
squirrel seemed to be most plentiful, and at almost
any time they could get one for a stew.

The day passed pleasantly. It was delightfully
warm, and the young cruisers enjoyed every minute
of it. They kept their paddles in motion. When
evening came on they had made splendid progress.

As the chance of camping on shore was something
that did not come every day, they determined to take



94 PADDLING IN FLORIDA,

advantage of it. So a suitable camping spot was
looked out for in the latter part of the day and found.

All was soon arranged. The business was rapidly
getting down to a system now, and they were able to
do an incredible amount of work in a very little space
of time.

Around the camp-fire that night the boys sang and
laughed. All went as merry asa marriage bell. It
was pleasant to hear their hearty voices ring out with
the ‘‘ Warrior Bold,” the “Sailor Boy,’’ or that ven-
erable old shanty song, “ Rolling down to old Mohea,”’
which every canoeist has heard around the camp-fire
at the Grindstone Island meet.

It was later than usual when they retired, and,
being wearied from the ardor of their day’s work, they
slept quite heavily. Dreams of home came to them,
perhaps, as they lay there under their shelter. The
camp-fire dwindled down, as neither awoke to replenish
it, for this Florida pine burns out quickly.

Roland awoke with a start. Something cold had
come in contact with his face, and he found he had
rolled out of the tent near the fire. His first thought
was of snakes—the deadly rattlesnake or equally ven-
omous moccasin. Chilled with horror at the idea of
such things being their bedfellows, he remained quiet,
not daring to move a hand, lest by so doing he would
invite an attack.

There was a movement near by. Then he heard an
unmistakable growl. A new thought flashed through
his brain. The fire had burned very low, but it was
not out, and as he twisted his head around that way
he could see some dark body outlined there,



Full Text








Aap NT ae

arte





A WILD CAT ON BOARD THE CANOE,
THE BOY CRUISERS,

OR

PADDLING IN FLORIDA, -

By ST. GEORGE RATHBORNE.

ILLUSTRATED.



NEW YORE:
A. L. BURT, PUBLISHER.
sual ae es oe ere
CorpyricHT 1893, BY A. L. BURT.


CONTENTS.

CHaprmr L—Youne Bucrrarts AT Kry WEst.
CHAPTER 1].—Tuer First Niegut Our,

CIAPTER [11.—Tur Canon BATTERY CALLED INTO ACTION,

Cuapter IV.—A Witp OUTSIDE Passaan.

CHAPTER V.—STORMBOUND ON A FLoripa Kry.

CHAPTER VI.—A Wet TurasH TO WINDWARD.

CHAPTER VII.—Roanp STRIKES GAME.

CHAPTER VIII.—Orr ror THE EVERGLADES.

CHAPTER IX.—Canoz Lire AMONG THE KeEyYs,

CHAPTER X.—Tur MUTTERING IN THE AIR.

CHAPTER XI.—StRIKING THE SILVER King.

CHAPTER XIL.—Tue First ALLIGATOR SERENADE,

CHAPTER XIII.—A Nigut VISITOR.

CHAPTER XIV.--Tur Lost Camp-FIire.

CHAPTER XV.—FomLing THR ALLIGATOR HUNTERS.

CHaPrer XVI.—A Ramy Day ww Camp.

CHAPTER XVII.—Swamp LirE In SOUTHERN FLORIDA.

CHAPTER XVIII.—SnHoorine A Honey THIEF,

CHAPTER XIX.—Tun EVERGLADES aT Last.

CHAPTER XX.—Free in THE Sky.

CHAPTER XXI.—A Brirp HATCHERY.

CHAPTER XXIT.—ALONE In THE WILDS OF FLORIDA.

CHAPTER XXIIL.—Tur SEMINOLE CAMP-FIRES.

CHAPTER XXIV.—AnpREW’s Story.

CHAPTER XXV.—Tur SEMINOLE Gurpr,

CHAPTER XXVI.—A Fire Hunt IN THE PINE Woops.

CHAPTER XXVII.—OxKrEcHoBeEr, THE DismaL LAKE.

CHAPTER XXVIIL—A CANOE “MEET” IN THE Harr
FLORIDA.

OF
iv CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XXIX.—CRUISING THROUGH THE CANAL.
CHAPTER XX X.—DEER-STALKING.

‘CHAPTER XXXI.—ON GUARD ALL NIGHT.
CHAPTER XXXII.—ON THE ’HATCHEE RIVER.
CHAPTER XX XIII.—RESTING aT MYERS.

CHAPTER XXXIV.—A BLACK THIEF IN THE NIGHT.
CHAPTER XXXV.—THE ANGLER’S PARADISE.
CHAPTER XXXVI.—SHaARK FISHING.

CHAPTER XXXVII.—IN CHARLOTTE HARBOR.
CHAPTER XXXVIII.—TuHE Last Camp-FIRE.
ILLUSTRATIONS.



Fronvisprece.—“ Tur Bos-Cat” and THE CRUISER.
PLGE

INITIAL.—GOObD-BY TO KEY WEST, : A s 2 f 4
InpIAN RIVER AND GULF SHARPIE, ScHOONER-Ria@eD, . 11
TREE Post-OFFICE ON FLORIDA RIVER, 3 ; " . 15
TarL-Prece.—-*‘ UNDER THE SPANISH Moss,” ‘i » 25
INITIAL.—PADDLING FoR LIFE, A 3 : a . 26
“Down Sars, anp Take To THE Pappu,” 2 . a tok
TAIL-PIECE.—LIGHTHOUSE AND STORM, 4 : 3 . 40
INITIAL.—PURSUED BY SAND FLIES, . 3 ‘i : . Al
INITIAL.—ROLAND STRIKES GAME, : 5 ; ‘ wens AT
Tur Canoz Camp at Nicest, . f 6 : 3 . 49
INITIAL.—READING THE LoG OVER AT HOME, 5 . 60
InrTIAL.—TARPON FISHING IN A CANOE, : 4 Sap eel8
Tum ‘‘ CRACKER’? HoNEY-GATHERER, .» S : So UE:
TaIL-PIECE.—WHITE-HEADED EAGLE, a 91
INITIAL.—ROLAND’S BEAR, ; F 5 - 5 - 92
Init1aL.—THE BirD Roost IN THE SWAMP, : soe OS
A SHOT FROM THE WATER, é ‘ : A ; . 115
JNITIAL,—‘“‘ T,” . . 3 ° : 3 » «,- 128
A FLORIDA “PALACE” SEETCHED FROM NATURE, >» 158
TuRTLE HuntTinad ALONG THE KEYS, . . . ae = eee lfil
INITIAL.—‘ LITTLE TOMMY AND THE ALLIGATOR,” . 172
ROLLY’s SCRAPE WITH THE RAzor-Back Hoas, f - 176
InrTIAL.—‘‘ Possession NINE POINTS OF THE Law,” . ; 185
IniTi1aL.—A TYPICAL ‘‘ CRACKER,”’. 5 ‘ . 190
“THE CRITTER SNAPPED ITS JAWS SHUT ON His Hanp,”’. 196
TarIL-Precre.—* THE SNAKE IN THE GRASS,” ‘3 . + 222
Roxanp to tar RescuE or THE SEMINOLE, . . . 220
Tue Canor Cruisers orr Punta Rassa, : : . 239
INITIAL.—LANDING A MONSTER SITARK, 2 . ° . 246
Tur YANKEE SHOWMAN’S WONDERFUL WHITE WHALE, . 249

TalL-PIEcE,—‘‘ GOOD-BY,” : . i S , 5 . 264
PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

CHAPTER I.
YOUNG BUCKTAILS AT KEY WEST.

{7 WAS exactly noon, on the
‘second day of January, 1887,
that the Morgan line steam-
er came into port at Key
West—that strange city at
the very southern point of the
United States.
She was somewhat over-
due, for quite a severe spell
of weather had been experi-
enced on the way down from
New York, ‘which had delayed her progress, although
at no time was any alarm felt by those on board.
Among other things left on the dock at Key West
were two beautiful canoes, wrapped in heavy folds of
bagging, and which seemed to be well loaded, to judge
from their weight.
There were besides two barrels of duffle,* and a couple
of the brightest young fellows one would expect to run
across anywhere. .





* A term used by canoeists to indicate traps of all sorts carried on
a cruise, even to edibles. It is also in vogue among old sportsmen,
and covers, like charity, a multitude of sins. —AUTHOR.


6 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

One of them had rather a nautical appearance, and
his bronzed features told that he was an old campaign-
er on the water, though still young in years.

His companion was a sturdy, well-built fellow, with
a homely, genial countenance, and, while ready for any

fun, he could be serious enough when the occasion de-
manded it.

These two young cruisers were not down in this re-
mote region of the United States on a mere sight-see-
ing tour.

They had before them a task that had never yet been
accomplished by such small and fragile vessels as their
own.

Other cruisers of a much larger pattern had made a.
flying trip from Key West up the Gulf coast since Dr.
Henshall described the sport to be found there, but
never members of the light and airy Mosquito fleet.

This was the task before them.

They intended leaving Key West, and, if no misfor-
tune overtook them, to bring up at Tampa some time ;
late in the Spring. It was a piece of daring few young
men would have ventured to carry through, but had
long been a dream of the sun-browned cruiser, Andrew
George, while his companion, Roland Carter, had only
lately fallen in with it.

There was danger in the undertaking, but both of
them were used to roughing it in the woods, so that
they anticipated no trouble that could not be overcome
by persistent endeavor. At the same time they knew
full well that such a long cruise, a considerable portion
of which must be made in thé open waters of the Gulf, .

_ always deemed a treacherous friend by those who know


YOUNG BUCKTAILS AT KEY WEST. q

it best, was sure to bring them no little honor among
their fellows of the American Canoe Association.

The day was lovely and warm, and both boys threw
off their coats in order to get things in readiness for
the business in hand. First of all they took the burlap
covers off the canoes, and found that the delicate boats

had received no perceptible injury as a legacy of their

long transportation from the interior of Pennsylvania.
The boats were not new, but in good condition. They
had carried their daring young skippers on many a
cruise—indeed, the little Mabel had thousands of miles
on-her log, and Roland in Sea Urchin, though less of a
wanderer, had been through considerable, considering:
that her master was only a two-year canoeist.

With the assistance of ready bystanders they soon
had the little vessels floating on their native element.
Both were rejoiced to find that the strain which had
of late been upon the canoes in handling them partly
loaded, did not appear to have started a single seam,
so well was their planking put together.

Naturally the lookers-on were filled with admiration
‘or the jaunty craft, although when they learned the
lestination of the adventurers they predicted all man-
ner of dire things in store for the expedition. These
men were oystermen, fishermen and spongers, who
were supposed to know all about the west coast and
its dangers. Hence Roland heard their comments with
some misgivings, but as he spoke to Andy with regard
to it the other laughed.

“Pay no attention to the croakers, Rolly. They
simply underestimate our craft because they have never
Seen acanoe ride the waves. If we were going to
8 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

make the trip ina yacht they would think it all right,
and yet to my mind there is less danger in a canoe, for
we can keep close to land, and get beyond the reach of
a storm by drawing up on shore.”’

‘“*Some of these spongers might give us points, as
they have been over the course so often, Andy.”’

But the skipper of the Mabel snapped his fingers.

« Hivery man would tell a different story. No, thank
you Rolly; all the information we can get lies here,’’
holding up a tin chart case, ‘“‘and what this won’t tell
us we'll find out for ourselves. We’re in for a long
cruise, but in the end we’ll pull through.

“Listen! There’s a fellow who’s taken the croak-
ers to task. He knows something about canoes, I
reckon. Hear him!” : h

“‘You fellers leave the boys alone. Ye don’t know
what yer talkin’ about. Them boats ain’t to be sunk
by any ornary storm. Cause why? Ain’t I seen
Kirke Monroe up at Biscayne Bay come in on rollers
‘as high as a house, and beach the boat without spill-
in’adrop inher? Ye let the boys alone and they’ll
bring up at Tampa.”

Still the curious crowd bothered our cruisers so
much with their remarks that the balance of the duftle
was hastily stowed, and they took up the double pad-
dles to seek a more retired place where the rest of
their work could be accomplished without curious eyes
being upon them,

By evening the dunnage was well stowed. They
secured the hatches on their boats and left the minia-«
ture craft in charge of a man who rented out row-
boats. Then they went to the city, sought a hotel
YOUNG BUCKTAILS AT KEY WEST. 9.

and had what was likely to be their last civilized meal
for many weeks, if not months.

Key West is a strange city, and the cruisers might
have spent several days in. examining its half-Spanish
features and many queer sights; but they were anx-
ious to be off, and had determined. to leave on the fol-
lowing day, should the weather prove favorable.

At this time of the year—the dry spell in southern
Florida—rainy days are seldom seen; indeed, some- >
times not a drop falls for a whole month, and as a con-
sequence fresh water commands a premium. :

This was one of the most serious problems our
young friends would have to solve, for their stowage
room was so small that only a single can of water
could. be carried in bulk, and even this had to be plac-
ed'on deck when the time came for sleeping in the
boats. Bottles containing fresh water were stowed
away in a few nooks, and these would come in
handy.

Each canoe was well laden ; they would require no
ballast, for the many packages of canned goods—
corned beef, Boston baked beans, condensed milk,
corn, tomatoes, roast beef, dried beef, etc.—stowed as
_ well forward as possible, served in lieu of the usual
bar of railroad iron, although in a heavy sea they
were apt to shift and bring danger unless carefully
housed.

After dinner at the hotel, our young friends made a
few purchases, having remembered on their trip
down that a necessity here and there had been for-
gotten.

Thus ‘Roland invested in a second small Chester
10» PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

folding anchor and a strong fifty-foot cable; a few

fixings, such as a chock to place at the bow for the

anchor-rope, and a piece of canvas out of which to

make a temporary hatch, for the wooden sections
_-were to be left behind at Key West to be shipped to
- Tampa, as they are a nuisance on a cruise, being for-
ever in the way.

There might come times when the wind would blow
too heavily to allow the boat tents to be erected, and
on such occasions this canvas hatch could be buttoned
along the outside of the cockpit, and the cruiser sleep
calmly below, safe from rain and spray, as “‘ snug as
a bug ina rug,’’ as Andy declared when showing his
arrangement to his chum. j

On his part Andy had secured a few things that
would be valuable, and which his experience told him
would be worth their weight in silver, under certain
conditions that might arise.

The boys were uneasy because of being away from
their beloved craft, and kept imagining all sorts of
evils. About the middle of the night Roland started
up in bed and began to thrash about him with exceed-
ing gusto.

“Let that boat alone, you lubber! Come back
with her, I say. Hello! Andy !”’

‘‘ Well, what’s the matter ?’’ said a sleepy voice.

“That sponger has gone off with my boat. Bless
my soul! where am 1?”

‘‘Safe in bed atthe hotel. Lie down and go to
sleep, there’s a good fellow.” And with a yawn Andy
turned over, leaving his bewildered companion to sum
up the situation and turn in again ‘all standing.”’
YOUNG BUCKTAILS AT KEY WEST. It

With the early dawn Roland was off to the boat-
keeper’s, haunted by the fear that his dream might be
true; but both canoes were. safely at anchor, bobbing
up and down on the little waves that came in with the
fresh morning breeze.


CHAPTER II.
THE FIRST NIGHT OUT.

YOR

Hy); HE day was fair, and the
, <= . cruisers saw no reason why
they should not be off as early
as possible. One thing or an-
AAS other detained them. It was
La Nirah cea no light task to leave Key

i ce West and start upon their long
journey of exploration, soa little
delay was better than some blunder in
forgetting a thing that was essential to
their well-being.

So they ate their lunch in the boats, after
which Roland went to mail letters written
to near friends who were decidedly interested in their
contemplated cruise, while Andy finished a job he had
on hand.

It was three o’clock when all had been done, and Ro-
land tossed down his log-book, in which he had been
scribbling.

“What say, is it go or hang over here another night,
Andy ?”

Andrew bent nearer him, as though apprehensive of
some one overhearing.

“We must change our quarters, going to another
part of the island, anyhow.’’


THE FIRST NIGHT OUT. 18

“Why ?”?

“Haven’t you noticed those two fellows hanging
around—the one with a single eye and a companion
about as good-looking as a Turk 2”’

“T have; but, Jupiter Ammon! you don’t suspect
‘they would attempt anything here?”

“T don’t know; such men wouldn’t hold back long on
a dark night in New York harbor, and I don’t believe
they’re any better here. Besides, what with our guns
and the multitude of other things we carry, this is a
cargo to tempt anything.”

‘* Andy, you’re right—as usual.”

“Then make ready to up anchor.”

“Good! I’m with you, commodore.”

To say the word was equivalent to action with An-
drew. In a minute his Chester mud-hook came
aboard, the little mainsail went up, and immediately
the Mabel started upon her long cruise up the Florida
coast—a cruise that was to be fraught with many
strange perils and adventures. such as would linger in
the memory of the young skippers for years.

The Sea Urchin was not many seconds behind. and

_ followed her leader out upon the dancing waters of the
eGulf. ~
Something like a curse sounded from the shore, and
looking back Roland could see the two men whom his
companion had spoken of talking earnestly together,
while they gesticulated after the manner of all Cubans.

The boys took off their felt hats and waved them at
the little knot of spongers on shore, who responded with
a cheer. One, whose language plainly indicated that
he was a Conch, bawled out:




14 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

< snap hup one of ’em sweet little craft.”’

The boys shouted back, feeling particularly joyous

‘under the exhilarating movement of the well-balanced
canoes with the breeze over the starboard quarter.

And so they left Key West, to see civilization no
more for weeks. If they got through all right, the
next point they expected to strike where men had ga-
thered into a social community would be the thriving
village of Myers, upon the Caloosahatchee river.

Roland kept in the wake of the Mabel, watching to
see what his companion would do. He knew Andy
would not dream of starting upon the long stretch be-
tween the island of Key West and the key next to
them at this late hour in the afternoon and with a
failing breeze.

On the Gulf coast—as is generally the case along the
Indian river—the breeze comes up in the morning with
the sun, fresh and vigorous, and, under ordinary cir-
cumstances, lasts until one or two o’clock in the after-
noon, when it gradually dies out, to arise again—per-
haps from a new quarter later on. This has been the ex-
perience of the writer during many and many a day
spent along the wonderful Indian river, and it will be
found about the same all over the coast region of
Florida.

Their speed became slower, until at last the wind
had passed into the “fluke” stage, and they made
little progress. With canoeists, however, such an event
knows but one remedy. Paddles came into play, and
the prows of the little craft cleft the salt water as roy-
ally as they had ever done the pellucid bosom of Lake
THE FIRST NIGHT OUT. 15

George, and the St. Lawrence river at Grindstone
Island meets.

Andy kept close to the land, his sharp eyes on the
lookout for a camping site. They would get as far
from the environs of the city as possible, believing that
it was best to doso, and then spend the night ‘‘ on their



























































































































A Tree Post Office on a Florida River.

arms,’’ figuratively speaking, so as to be ready to take
advantage of the fresh breeze that would come with
the rising sun.

The little cove they sought was found at last, and
16 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

poth canoes drawn up on the beach. It was not an
ideal camping ground, by any means, but would pass
muster in lieu of a better.

When all was made snug a fire was started on
shore by Roland, who found plenty of wood that
needed only the sharp edge of his hatchet to make it
available for the purpose. He noticed that Andy
looked in the direction of the city more than once, as
though there was something on his mind.

“Sorry you left, Andy ?’’ he asked.

“Not a bit of it. I was only wondering whether we
would get through the night without a rumpus.”’

“JT don’t quite understand.’

«Those fellows can reach us here, if they know we
areincamp. What is to hinder?”

‘‘ Nothing, that’s a fact. They can come by boat or
overland. What shall we do, Andy?’’

“Wait awhile. We'll fix it all.”

The meal was prepared in a jolly way, each of the
cruisers joking about everything that turned up out
of the way. Now that the trip was a thing of the
present, and not of the future, they were conscious of a
deep feeling of satisfaction that could not be expressed
in words, but which showed itself in the interest they
took in everything pertaining to their work.

When supper was over they talked about the
situation, and endeavored to develop the best plan that
would meet it. Andy suggested finally that they
anchor their boats in the cove, side by side, and take
turns watching. It would perhaps be the only night
they would have to do such a thing, as their future
THE FIRST NIGHT OUT. 17

ones might be expected to be unmolested, at least so
far as human beings were concerned.

The canoes were anchored about a length apart. It
the wind changed in the night, both would turn to-
gether, and yet the boys could come alongside by the
rear canoe being paddled around, swinging her stern
close to the bow of the forward boat.

Lighting their pipes, the boys talked over matters
connected with the cruise before them. The tents had
been triced up, and all was comfortable on board such
diminutive craft. Experience in the past enabled them
to secure all the comfort possible, and every square
inch of room was utilized to hold some necessity. Al-
though the boats were so well laden, little had been
taken upon the trip that was a luxury. There is one
old veteran camper—Nessmuk—who might have
started upon such an expedition with less than they
carried, but even he has learned of late some new
things with regard to Florida cruising.

Reminiscences. were also indulged in, and they
laughed again over some ridiculous scrape they had
gotten into, the previous summer, when making a trip
down the Susquehanna river from a point in the
mountains.

At length Andy yawned, and made a slap ata ven-
turesome mosquito that had managed to find its way
inside the bar of coarse cheese-cloth with which the
interior of each canoe tent was draped.

‘You can have either the first or second watch,
Andy,” said Roland.

** Which do you prefer?’ |

*“T’ll stand first, if it’s all the same.”
18 : PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

“Very good. There comes the moon out from be-
- hind that cloud. I’m glad it is not going to be dark.
Mind, no sleeping on your post?”’

“Don’t fear for me. Ihave too healthy a recollec-
tion of that one-eyed man’s scowl. What time shall I
wake you up?”

“‘Let’s see. Call it twelve or one, as you please.”’

“ Good-night, Mabel.”’

“Ditto, Sea Urchin.”

Andy settled down to court the gentle goddess, while
his fellow-cruiser set himself to the task of keeping
awake. It was no light labor, and he more than once
had to shake off the terrible drowsy feeling that crept
over him.

‘Everything seemed to induce sleep; the gentle mo-
tion of the cedar craft upon the water, the murmur of
the little waves as they lapped against the starboard
planking (for the wind was gradually veering to the
south), the droning sound of insects in the air—all these
combined to form a lullaby which was soothing to the
cruiser’s ears, and it was only by persistent effort that
Roland kept the lids of his eyes from gluing fast.

Hours passed.

The moon had moved along in her course. It must
be after midnight.

Suddenly Roland pricked up his ears to listen, while
at the same time his hand crept to the hook on which
his revolver hung.
CHAPTER III.

THE CANOE BATTERY CALLED INTO ACTION.

HE young skipper of the Sea
Urchin was wide awake in an
instant, for he could still see in
his mind the evil face of that
one-eyed man who had looked
so gloatingly upon the canoes
and their valuable cargoes.

As the little boat swung at her anchorage

she was just ahead of the Mabel. All

seemed silent as the grave on board the
latter craft, and without a doubt her master
was sound asleep.

Roland turned his attention toward the shore; as
the canoe lay she presented her port quarter toward
the interior of the little cove. There were, perhaps,
.some twenty feet of water between the spot of their
anchorage and that where the gentle waves splashed
upon the coquina rock-lined shore.

The moon was as bright as a new silver dollar, so
. that every inch of this water-covered space could be
seen by a pair of ordinary eyes.

A number of strange noises had greeted the ear of
the young Bucktail while reclining in his boat during
the hours passed by. He had spent many a night in


20 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Northern woods, but there are new things to be met
with in the weird swamps and along the coast line of
fair Florida, from the terrible, yellow moccasin of the
interior, and his alligator companion, to the great tar-
pon of the salt water. Birds, fish and animals—there
are many new things to be found under this Southern
sky, such as Northern eyes have never seen.

Roland had heard the splashing of many fishes, the
rush and roar of schools of mullet when pursued by
their finny foes, and had smiled in contemplation of
the sport for his faithful rod ahead.

He had caught the weird cry—a croaking sound—
of the night heron, as that lonely bird settled upon
the rocks of the little beach, intent on finding a meal
in the water; but even this had failed to arouse him
from his lethargy.

When, however, he caught the splashing sound
coming from between the canoes and the shore, he was
fully aroused. Itmust be caused by some large ani-
mal or a human being. Perhaps it was an alligator.
Not having seen a live saurian as yet, his mind was
full of vague alarm with respect to the damage such
a reptile might do; for the words of the melancholy
Conch still rang in his ear with respect to letting an
alligator close his jaws upon one of the frail craft.

No sooner had Roland looked out than he saw the
cause of the commotion.

The side-flaps of his boat-tent were partly up, the
netting of cheese-cloth covering over all, thus prevent-
ing insects from entering, and yet not keeping out the
fresh night air.

Thus Roland was enabled to see without himself be-
THE BATTERY CALLED INTO ACTION. a1

ing discovered. Tt was a spectacle to make the blood
dash more violently through his veins, and cause him
to press his teeth together firmly. ;

Two dark, bulky objects were seen upon the water-—
they were the figures of men. Even as the young
Bucktail looked he saw one of them advance a few
feet, making as little noise as was possible under the
circumstances.

Perhaps one of them had tripped over some object
under the water. This would account for the splash-
ing sound that had aroused Roland. If this was really
the case, he and his fellow-cruiser had reason to be
thankful that accidents sometimes occur even in the
best regulated families.

Roland at first sight recognized in the leader of
these two men the one-eyed individual who had evinced
such a decided interest in the canoes. His companion
was no doubt formed upon the same model as himself.
They were evidently desperadoes, who believed a
chance offered to make a big haul with little risk.

For once they mistook their men.

There could be no question as to the motives of the
night prowlers. That their mission was evil was evi-
dent from their very actions

Now, Roland was no old soldier.. He had never shed
a drop of human blood in his young life, and had a deep-
rooted horror of ever being compelled to do so, though
Should the circumstance arise, and it became neces-
sary for him to defend himself, he would prove equal
to the task.

Under the present circumstances he believed these
thieves were natural cowards, and they would be suffi-
29 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

ciently alarmed if they suddenly became aware that
they were discovered.

Groping for the edge of the cheese-cloth curtain, he
raised it gently. Nothing now obstructed his vision,
nor was there any impediment to his firing. The
time had come for the circus to begin. Thrusting out
the hand that held the revolver, he aimed between the
two dark figures, at the water, and pulled the trigger.

There was a crashing report. The water spurted
up where the bullet struck. At the same time Roland -
let out a shout loud enough to have aroused the dead.

“Andy! Thieves! Alligators! Sharks! Ahoy!”

“On deck, Rolly,” said a quiet voice close by, and
bang ! went Andrew’s revolver.

The spectacle was really ludicrous now—to those in
the canoes. Such was the fright of the two rascals in
the cove that they made desperate efforts to gain the
shore. All thought of plunder was overwhelmed in
the grand effort to escape what seemed to be a miser-
able fate. ‘

The water was above their knees, and prevented
their bodies from making as rapid progress as their
cowardly souls desired. As a natural consequence,
both of them fell down.

What with the wild splashing of the two thieves,
their loud cries of alarm, the banging reports of revol-
vers, and shouts of the young fellows in the boats, the
scene was one that would linger long in the memory
of the active participants. 7

The two rascals managed to gain the shore after en-
countering numerous difficulties, and the lively man-
ner in which they clambered in among the sparse
THE BATTERY CALLED INTO ACTION. 23

vegetation testified to the respect in which they held
the young voyagers.

* Listen, Rolly,” said Andrew.

They could distinctly hear the plunging of retreating
footsteps. Evidently the would-be thieves were not
halting upon the manner of their going.

**T reckon we’ve scared them off.”’

“Yes, for once,” said Andy, ‘but they may re-
turn.”’ :

“What shall we do ?”’

«You want some sleep, and there’s no reason you
shouldn’t have it. Get your mud-hook aboard.”

While wondering what was up, Roland did as he
was requested, though it was only accomplished after
some difficulty, for the tent made it hard work to get
at the anchor cable.

When he had finally accomplished the task, he
waited for further orders.

“Get your paddle, Rolly, and roll up the net on
both sides.”

Then they were only about to change their place of
anchorage. Had it been Andy’s intention to quit the ©
neighborhood, his first order would have been to strike
the tents, so that they could have made fair progress.

It was difficult work paddling along in this way
with the tent up. Under most circumstances such a
thing would have been impossible, but fortunately
there was only a faint breath of air stirring from the
south, and this was not a head wind.

Yard by yard they worked out of the cove.

Andrew kept plunging his paddle down every little
while to learn the depth of water. There was little


94. PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

need of this, so shallow did they find it all along. In
most places along the Gulf coast of Florida a yacht
drawing six feet of water has to keep from one to five
miles from land because of the extreme shallow water.
Thus, those who cruise in such boats find little chance
to explore the thousands of inlets that abound in this
region, and which are generally swarming with fish.

When they had gone about a hundred feet from the
shore, Andrew sung out:

“Here we are. Come alongside, Rolly.’’

So saying, he cast his anchor out. There was a
heavy plunge, and the Mabel rode the little waves like
a decoy duck. Roland drew up on aline, although
more than a boat-length away. If the canoes whipped
around they could not foul, as the same breeze or tidal
current would influence both of them.

“Now settle yourself for a good sleep. I’m on
guard, and if the wind rises I’ll wake you up, for we
would have to stow the tents or we could never hold
our anchorage here. Turn in, Rolly.’’

“ Just as you say, Andy,’’ came a sleepy voice from
the bowels of the Sea Urchin.

In five minutes’ time the heavy breathing that came
from this quarter announced that Roland had turned
in, and was already enjoying the sleep that comes to a
mind free from care.

Through the remainder of the night Andrew sat in
his boat, smoking his pipe and keeping a close watch
over the shining, silvery water that lay between them-
selves and the shore. There was no alarm. The ras-
cals had probably been too badly scared by their
former hot reception to think of renewing the assault
THE BATTERY CALLED INTO ACTION. 25

«“ Ahoy there, Sea Urchin !’’ came Andy’s hail, and
Roland poked his ‘head out of the tent.

“ Hello! What’s up now ?”

«Time you were. Daylight is at hand, and the
breeze freshens. We must have breakfast, down with
the tents, and commence our first day at sea. You
know we have some ugly runs before we make the
mainland at Cape Sable. To work, Rolly!”

“Here’s for it !’? was the enthusiastic reply as Ro
land’s head vanished within.


CHAPTER IV.

A WILD OUTSIDE PASSAGE.







a REAKFAST was gotten through
with in a hurry, and then the
2, tents demolished and stowed

7 away.

“Make everything snug,

=~ _,. Rolly, for we’ve got toslip over

— some open work to-day, and its
Eve just possible we may see some
= * wind at sea before we bring up

on the shore of the key we are
aiming for this bright morning in January.”’

Andy’s advice was good, as it generally proved to
be, and his companion did not forget to follow it.

Rolly had had an experience in rough weather upon
Lake Champlain with a loose cargo, and he was apt
to remember it always, seeing that he had come within
an ace of going down. Up went the sails. The gen-
tle breeze filled them as soon as anchors were let
go, and the venturesome young canoeists were off on
their long voyage. All seemed bright and joyous on
this lovely January morning. It would have been
hard to have prophesied evil to. an expedition that
started with such pleasant prospects, and yet it is pos-
sible that had the two skippers been able to have fore-


















































































A WILD OUTSIDE PASSAGE. 27

seen the shadows that awaited them, the grave perils
and narrow escapes that would line the route, they
might have hesitated appalled, and even have changed
their minds. It was well this could not be done, else
this narrative of the lively canoe cruise had never been
written.

The wind could not be more favorable, as it drew
almost squarely out of the south, perhaps S. by W.
It was a gentle breeze as yet, and the light vessels
danced along merrily. How charming it seemed to
lie there and glide along! Rolly watched the island
on which lay Key West until they had cleared it en-
tirely, and were stretching along over the open space
that separated them from the next key.

The Sea Urchin was almost abreast of its companion
craft, and hence the skippers could converse without
much effort. Andy believed in the policy that during
the reign of peace prepare for war.

Acting upon this idea, he arranged a code of signals
with Rolly. The old battered fish-horns were pro-
duced and sounded. One could hear the blast almost
a mile away, and even the roar of a storm could not
have drowned it out.

One blast was intended to signify that the time was
come to turnin, while two meant ‘‘ Go, for all you are
worth.”

The wind freshened. They sped along like wild
birds, skimming the surface of the green billows. It
was exhilerating work, and Rolly enjoyed it. What
fun can be had unless there is a spice of danger con-
nected with it?

Here they were,virtua\\y out at sea in mere cockle-


28 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

shells, so frail that it seemed as though an ordinary bil-
low might slap them to splinters. And such a thing
might occur could the billow get its work in, but they
rode the seas like corks, so buoyant was their construc-
tion.

Fear did not enter into the composition of these
young fellows, and they would never have started
upon such a cruise had it been so, for they knew there
would be hard times ahead—coccasions when things
might seem gloomy enough. They were not reckless,
either, but, without seeking dangers, could bravely
meet and overcome a difficulty when it faced them.

The morning slipped away. Noon came. Itfound
them about half-way between Key West and the low
key for which Andy had been aiming. This seemed
rather poor work, but the wind had flattened out until
it became a mere zephyr, and their progress was very
slow.

The heaving bosom of the Gulf had grown wonder-
fully quiet, until it even looked like a mirror. Andy
had turned his head this way and that while the boats
rubbed together and their skippers ate lunch. He
was wondering from what quarter the new breeze
would arise when it came.

The sun was really hot, and both of them had will-
ingly sacrificed their coats, only retaining trousers
and flannel shirts. Andy was plainly growing uneasy,
and Roland could see it.

“IT can’t stand this. We are losing valuable time.
No one can tell from what direction the wind may
come. It’s as likely to besa head one-as not, so it will
pay us to get as near that key as we can,”
A WILD OUTSIDE PASSAGE. 29

‘Then we must stir up a spruce breeze?”

“That’s the idea.’’

Out came the double-bladed paddles, and the two
canoes were soon cutting a swath through the glassy
sea. This lasted for an hour, and then Andy called out:

“The wind will be from the west when it comes.’’

“ How do you know ?”

“See that dark line of clouds slowly forging up
along the horizon.”’

“ Jupiter ! that means a storm.”

“Very likely,’’? coolly replied the other, ‘and it
would be well for us to be in camp when its full force
breaks upon us.”’

“To work, then. No time to be lost.”’

“There comes the breeze.”

Sure enough, half a mile to the westward -the smooth
surface of the water was broken as by a line, and they
could see the rapid advance of the breeze. They would
get it over the port quarter. Rolly saw how rapidly
the line of clouds was climbing up into the heavens,
and he knew they were in for it.

The paddles were stowed where they could be hand-
ily reached. Then the little craft began to glide for-
ward ; the murmur of the water parting at the bows
made sweet music to their ears, and they moved on in
the direction of their destination, still some miles
away.

A couple of hours of this satisfactory work would
have been all they could have asked, as it would have
landed them at their destination ; but things were not
destined to go on so smoothly.

It was a disagreeable fact, which they could not over-
30 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

come, that the breeze was freshening rapidly. With
it the waves arose. The bosom of the Gulf was no
longer placid and calm, but heaved tumultuously, and
this state of affairs, instead of growing better, promised
to become worse with every passing minute.

Their progress would seem to be fair with such a
breeze, but the waves hindered their movements to
some extent. Both skippers hung well out to wind-
ward, and even then there was danger of the craft
capsizing, so violent were the squalls that struck them
at times.

Andy stretched a point, but finally gave in. Rolly
held out as long as his companion did, but when he saw
that the skipper of the Mabel had stowed his dandy
he hastened to follow suit with a sigh of relief. This
act helped them to a certain extent, but the-wind had
not yet reached its maximum velocity, and it was only
a question of time when they would have to do away
with the other sail also.

To add to Rolly’s alarm, his rudder. was washed
loose and he had to drag it aboard, doing his gs
with the double-bladed paddle.

The dark bank of clouds had now shown their full
strength. Ahead of them flew outriders. It was just
like an army advancing to battle with a cloud of skir-
mishers thrown out in front.

Roland eyed their advance with considerable appre-
hension, for he knew that, strong as the wind was now
it would presently strike them in a severe squall, after
which the storm would shut them in.

He was grit to the backbone, however, and not the
one to prove faint-hearted. Whenever it was possible




“DOWN SAILS, AND TAKE TO THE PADDLE.”


A WILD OUTSIDE PASSAGE. 33

he cast his eyes about him to see how Andy was com-
ing on.

Once he got a glimpse of what seemed to be land
nearly half a mile to leeward. Then they had actually
come abreast of the key, and it was it he saw, covered
with the mangrove bushes that seem to take root any-
where.

This was encouraging, at any rate. Some cruisers
would have tried landing upon the shore after pass-
ing around the key, but there was danger of the squall
driving them beyond, when they would be lost. Andy
preferred meeting the danger boldly and facing the
music. When the proper time came they would go in
ona giant roller with a rush and be landed on the
sandy beach.

Rolly had seen a wreck on the coast some years be-
fore, and vividly remembered the lashing waves, the
launching of the crude life-boat, the signals of distress
from the doomed ship, and the bravery of the fisher-
man’s wife who urged the men to go to the rescue.

Somehow the memory of that stormy night on the
coast haunted the canoeist now in his hour of peril.

Hark! what was the wild clamor that arose above
the whistling of the wind? Rolly knew it proceeded
from his companion’s horn and signified the approach
of the squall. This meant bare poles. Down came the
mainsail in a trice and was secured as best as the cir-
cumstances would allow, and out came the paddle.

Phew ! whata stinger that wind was! Being in the
trough of the sea, the boats escaped its full force, but
even then their skippers were put to their best paces in
order to keep from capsizing.


34 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

It was a trying occasion, but both of them pulled
through all right, thanks to their intimate acquaint-
ance with their boats’ abilities and the knowledge of
what to do in an emergency.

Roland now waited anxiously for the signal that
would mean a new course. Allthe while he wielded
his paddles with astonishing celerity, and kept the Sea
Urchin where he wanted her.

Perhaps they had not seen the worst of the storm
yet. It might increase to such an extent that the ca-
noes would be swamped. Great care had to be taken
now lest they should lose their grip. :

The roar of the surf filled Roland’s ears and he could
see the white foam not seventy feet away. Why did
not Andy give the signal? Every nerve was strained
to the utmost tension. He was eager to be in the
worst. There was an awful fascination about the.long
lines of foamy billows. oe

Ah! the signal at last !- Sharp and clear the double
blast rang out. Rolly set-his muscles for the task be-
fore him, and, with a look of grim determination on his
young face, headed the bow of the staunch little Sea
Urchin for the boiling, heaving surf, darting away on
top of a giant roller with race-horse speed, and pad-
dling for dear life!
CHAPTER V.

STORM-BOUND ON A FLORIDA KEY.

SOLAND struck his paddle in
deeply, and brought every
atom of muscular ability he
possessed into action. He knew
that to carry out the plan
with success he must ride on
that roller through the surf.
The boiling, hissing water surrounded
him, seeming like myriads of serpents
carrying his frail craft onward in their
midst with irresistible power.

The boy’s teeth were set hard, but he
did not forget his business, which was to
use that double blade with desperate zeal, unmindful
of all else.

There went a thrill of deep satisfaction through his
frame when his paddle touched the sand. Overboard
he jumped. The water was not over his knees, for the
wave had very nearly expended its force. He must
drag the Sea Urchin up beyond the reach of the next
wave, which, being a larger one, might overwhelm him.

This being done, he remembered that he had had a



36 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

comrade on this wild ride. Where was Andy and the
Mabel?

“‘Halloo, Sea Urchin! Come to town, eh?” said a

voice near by.
_ Turning his head, Roland saw his friend standing
there with one hand laid affectionately upon the bow of
his faithful little craft, and the other made use of in
lieu of a trumpet; for the wind blew fiercely, seizing
his words and carrying them to leeward.

«What next, Andy?” asked Roland.

“We can’t stay here, that’s sure. Before this thing
blows over it will grow much worse.”

“Tf we could only get to the other side of the key

‘‘ Perhaps that will not be so difficult as you seem to
believe. Take hold and pull the Mabel up further on
the sand. Then we'll perform the same kind office
for the other, after which 1 mean to investigate this
little inlet.”

Roland caught the idea like a flash, and saw what it
promised. The inlet was nothing but a narrow strip
of water a dozen feet in width. It apparently cut the
key into halves, so far as they could see. Once the
canoes were worked intoit, and they could probably
pass to the sheltered side of the key.

No time was to be lost. An investigation speedily
showed them that this was the best thing they could
do, at any rate, so with a will they set to work. When
both boats were launched the skippers embarked.
There was little need of paddles, for both the wind
and the rush of water through the inlet carried them
along.

Andy kept his eyes on the alert, and when they

49?
STORM-BOUND ON A FLORIDA KEY. 37

reached a point where the mangrove bushes sheltered
them in a degree from the violence of the gale, he gave
the signal to land.

Both boys set to work to get things in order, for
there was a promise of rain soon, and although Ro-
land’s experience with sub-tropical down-pours had
been limited, he knew that as a general thing they
were heavy. é

It was of no use trying to put up the canoe-tents,
for the wind was too strong. So things were made as
cozy as circumstances would allow, the canvas hatches
were buttoned down, after the canoes had been made
doubly secure by lines carried to the strong mangroves
on the shore, the anchors having poor holding ground.

These things were not done any too soon, for present-
ly, while the two cruisers were making a cold lunch,
there was a sudden rush, a tattoo upon the decks, and
the rain had come.

This was their first night out, literally speaking, for
the long cruise did not begin until they left Key West.
It would be marked with a white stone in their ac-
count of the trip, for a more uncomfortable night they
could not have passed. The boats were small, and so
crowded with stores necessary on a salt-water cruise
of this kind that our youn g adventurers could only with
difficulty turn around.

It may be believed that Roland found daylight com-
ing again with great pleasure. The rain had ceased
and the clouds passed away, but the wind blew great
guns. As the sea was rolling mountain-high, there
was no use of their thinking about leaving the key
that had given them such friendly shelter,
38 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

It was found possible to start a fire with some wood
picked up here and there, and the balance of the day
was passed in various ways. Toward evening Andy
took an observation, and declared that both wind and
sea were abating.

“We'll be out of this in the morning, Sea
Urchin.”

“Good! This Crusoe life don’t suit me. .A dreary
waste of sand and mud, with a few bushes on it—bah!
I don’t like it.’’

‘* How about being lost in a swamp ?”

‘You would see life there, at any rate—alligators,
birds, and reptiles of all sorts.”

‘‘ Moccasins, for instance—those yellow fellows that
throw themselves into striking attitudes when in the
water.”’

“Wait. Don’t try my nerves now. How about the
tents to-night? My bones ache yet after that close
fit. Is there any hope?”

“Certainly. With a wind dying out, my tent shall
goup. I want some comfort, and there’s little enough
to be gotten out of a night aboard a fifteen-foot canoe,
even under the most favorable conditions.”

It did not take long to get the striped tents in posi-
tion, and, once this was done, much comfort was found
inside.

Andy’s prediction was fulfilled. The strong breeze
‘ died out almost as suddenly as it had sprung up.
Roland, waking up about midnight, poked out his head
to take an observation. All was serene. The moon
shone brightly from an unclouded sky. There was |
even a balmy feeling in the air. Listening, he could
STORM-BOUND ON A FLORIDA KEY. 39

hear the gentle splash of the water on the windward
shore of the key.

“What dye think, Sea Urchin ?’ asked a quiet
voice near by.

There was Andy with his head out of his tent, also
taking a squint at the weather.

“‘T think we'll be away in the morning, and hope
to make Cape Sable by night,” returned Roland.

Andy laughed.

“You're sanguine, my boy, and I hope you won’t
be disappointed, but I know how short-lived each kind
of weather is in Florida. One day up at Jax you’ll be
perspiring like fun at this time of year. In the night
the windows rattle, there is a roar like the rush of an
express-train, and lo! an old friend from above has
swept into town—the North Wind. Probably the next
morning you will find the mercury down several de-
grees below freezing.”’

“Well, I’m off again. I didn’t sleep much last
night, you know.”

“Got used to a hard bed yet?”

' “Not quite. I miss my canoe cushions, but it would
have been folly to have brought them along. These
water-cans take up the space they would occupy.”

“Yes; if the cruise was on fresh water—down the
Mississippi, for instance, like that of our genial friend
and ex-secretary, Dr. Neide—we might have been more
comfortable.’

Roland crawled under his blankets again and went
to sleep, lulled by the gentle motion of the canoe upon
the water of the inlet.

Early on the morning of the 6th the cruisers were
40 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

awake. Preparations were soon under way for break-
fast, for Andy vowed he would not go a boat’s length
until he had broken his fast; while Roland, eager to
take advantage of the beautiful breeze that had
sprung up toward morning, would have started at
once and eaten something while on the way. Perhaps,
under the circumstances, this would have been the
wiser course, but Andy had learned a good deal by
experience, and he could be trusted to come out all
right in the end.

Then the cables and tents were stowed, sails raised
and the mud-hooks taken aboard. In ten minutes
Roland was waving his hand toward the key that lay
astern.

‘‘Fare thee well, and if forever, then forever fare
thee well!’’ he shouted merrily.


CHAPTER VI.

A WET THRASH TO WINDWARD.

ARE off on the bounding
sea. life for me,’’ sang Andy.

Every little while he was
apt to break out into song,
and many a night would his
rich baritone voice arouse
the solemn echoes of the dis-
mal swamps that lay along
their route.

‘“‘ What is the course ?”’ asked Roland.

‘“N. E. by N. as near as I can get it—perhaps a
little further north, half a point or so.’

‘Then, like the Irish navigator, we’ll lash the rud-
der, and stick to the coorse.’ ””

** But his was ‘sou-aist.’ ”’

“That’s small difference. We’ve got our course
and we’ll stick to it. How works the compass ?”’

“ Hairly well, but.the motion of the canoe disturbs
the needle a little.’’

They made fair progress for some time. The
weather was apt to be good for a day or two now,
since the recent storm had cleared the atmosphere.


42 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

All that Andy feared was a change of wind. Should
it whip around to the north they could not expect to
make decent progress.

Fortune favored them toa certain extent, and by
noon they had made good headway. Lunch was
eaten en route with some gusto, since their breakfast
had been an early one. The great trouble with the
boys was that they were nearly always hungry.
There was something in the air that caused them to
consume their provisions at such a rate that Andy
figured they would not last out unless supplemented
with fish, flesh and fowl, which they expected to strike
along the mainland.

About a quarter to three the breeze died out. No
time was wasted in useless whistling, but the double
blades came out, and the canoes cut through the
water like agile fishes.

“See, a shark yonder !” cried Roland.

“Yes, and here comes a school of porpoises. I’ve
seen them rolling in at the inlets along the Atlantic
coast by dozens, when the young flood tide began to
work.”’

‘“‘What is that black-looking object yonder? It
seems to be asleep.”’

“By Jove! as I live, I believe it’s a devil-fish.”

Roland reached under the deck beside him.

“Hold on there! What are you after ?”

“‘ My repeating rifle ”’

‘Let it alone. You couldn’t kill that monster, and
once wounded it might take a notion to destroy our
frail craft. Let it sleep.”

As they sailed past the huge ocean vampire and
A WET THRASH TO WINDWARD. 43

noted its great size, Roland concluded that his com-
panion’s advice was sound. Tt looked like a great
black bat asleep on the surface of the water, and from
tip to tip of its wing-like arms must have measured
twenty feet.

Several hours of this work brought them to a key,
where they made preparations to pass the next night.
Just then, however, a nice breeze sprung up and
Roland looked at Andy.

« An hour of light yet.”

“ There’s another key over yonder, and I am of the
opinion it would be a better place than this for a
camp.”

‘How far do you make it ?”

‘Say five miles.”

«This breeze is too good to be lost. Shall we try
the riffle ?”

“It’s a go.”

Mainsail and dandy were thrown to the wind, and
immediately the twin canoes were tearing through the
water at a lively rate. The wind increased, but the
sea did not get very rough, so that their progress was
exceedingly rapid. In half an hour they rounded
under the lee of the key. The sup was nearly down
when the anchors were thrown out and tents raised.

‘‘ Hand me the shotgun and cartridge belt, Andy.”

‘“What’sup. More devil-fish ? ”’

“Shore birds over yonder. Tide’s going out; I be-
lieve I could pick the bones of a few.”

Getting ashore, Roland crept along back of a fringe
of mangroves, and when within range let fly with both
barrels, the last as the flock arose.
44 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

He picked up seven birds, three being robin snipe,
and the others lesser yellow-legs.

When he got back to where he had left Andy he
found that worthy dragging his boat up on the
sand.

**We’ll cook supper over a camp-fire to-night, my
boy. What! Seven snipe, and yellow-legs too.
Good enough! TI’ll get ’em in order while you pull the
Sea Urchin ashore.”’

“What the deuce !—Andy, have I got a fever, or
what’s the matter with my face and hands? They
smart and burn like fun.”? And Rolly danced about,
while Andy laughed aloud.

“Oh! you must get used to that, old fellow. I’ve
been here before. It’s sand-flies.’’

“Tsee. I’ve laughed to read about them, but the
experience is no funny business. What can we do
about it?”

‘Nothing much. Let it goon. You'll get used to
itin time. They generally only get their work in about
sunrise or sunset. Sometimes they are very bad
just before a storm, and we make a smudge and sit in
the smoke for relief.”

About the camp-fire they talked and smoked and
sang until well into the night. It was strange to hear
Andy’s clear voice trolling over the waters of the Gulf
as he rattled off a rollicking song about ‘‘ the bark that
would tack and the tar come back.”’

Such scenes linger long in the memory, and can be
recalled years hence, when by closing the eyes one can
see the gleaming water, the tented boats, the cheery
fire, and hear the songs that have such a hold upon the
A WET THRASH TO WINDWARD. 45

mind. Many such nights have I passed upon the
Florida coast with cruising friends.

When the morning came the boats were soon in
order for business, and the friendly key left behind.
Their progress had been so fair up to this time that
even sceptical Andrew gave hope of reaching the main-
land ere they camped again.

All went well.

The mainland wasin sight. It looked pleasant after
seeing nothing but a waste of water for a number of
days.

«Will we make it? ”’ asked Roland.

“We must.”

“Tf this wind holds out—”

“That’s just it. I hones it 1s shifting. You see
it comes from the west now.”’

«True enough.”

‘I generally looked for a Norther along the east
coast when the wind got in that quarter. The same
thing may happen here.’’

Should this occur they would be in rather a desper-
ate strait. Hoping for the best, everything that could
be done was brought to bear in order tofurther their
progress. How slowly they neared the mainland! It
looked as though they would never reach it, and yet
the breeze held out and they seemed to be making
fair progress.

Andy’s prediction was fulfilled. About the middle
of the afternoon the wind madea jump and began to
blow out of the north.

“‘ We're in for it, old comrade. Make all snug on
deck and draw your apron about you as well as you
46 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

can. A wet thrash to windward here is not to be
sneezed at.”

“‘ Dangerous, eh ?”’

“Oh! we'll pull through all right. I’m not afraid
of your Corinthian qualities. You will do me proud
before this cruise is over. To work!”

It was a task few young fellows would have liked
to handle, but there was no way to avoid the beat to
windward with a rising sea. Luckily, the first long
tack took them somewhat in the shelter of the land.
They made a short leg of the starboard tack, and then,
coming about again, went on a long port run.

The progress made could be easily seen, and Roland’s
boat proved so stiff and stanch under the work that
he was quite encouraged. Spray splashed over them -
as the wind threw the waves against the exposed side
of the boat, but each had donned an oilskin jacket and
sou'wester, so that they were impervious to water

The work became lighter as they drew nearer the
land, and finally, passing through a stretch of smooth
water, the canoes went ashore.

Both boys.sprang out and drew the dainty craft up
on the mainland of Florida at last.
CHAPTER VII.

ROLAND STRIKES GAME.



e771 DON’T exactly like this place
é for a camp, Andy,” said
Roland. ahs

“Why not?”

‘““Tt’s too exposed to suit
me. I was looking over my
chart a little while ago, and
I believe we are within half
a mile of Cape Sable Creek.”’

“Let me see.”’

Andy looked it up, and agreed that Roland was
right in his conclusions. It was quickly decided that
they should make at least an attempt to gain this har-
bor. After some labor success greeted them, and the
mouth of the creek was reached. It was about twenty
feet wide, but once the opening was passed a splendid
piece of water lay before them, such as they were not
likely to see again for a long while.

Here they spent the night. It was a very comfort-
able one, and in all respects differed from that night
when storm-bound on the outermost of the Pine Keys.
48 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Taking their charts, the boys, by the ent of the camp:
fire, traced their recent course.

“You see, Roland, we first headed north, and then
northeast, passing by that wilderness of keys among
which I did not like to venture. Then we struck al-
most due east, camping last night on this patch of ©
ground, called Center Key. From that our course
here was almost due north.”

“From this on our line will be near the land. The
worst outside work is over.”

“¢ Yes, but there are a number of places where we
will have a run through the open water.’’

“Well, we are equal to it, I reckon.”’

‘““The boats have behaved beautifully. lam proud
of them.”’

«And my courage has been raised to a high pitch
by our success. I confess I had qualms of fear as to
what He result might be, but I am perfectly satisfied
now.’

Their surroundings were of a far different nature
from any they had yet experienced, and both of them
were pleased with the change. Life was to be seen in
all quarters—in the air, the pine woods and the water
of the wide creek.

Innumerable birds, many of brilliant plumage, were
discovered, and Andy presently pointed out a scarlet
flamingo; but it was shy, and although Roland eager-
ly snatched the shotgun up, he was unable to get a
shot at it.

There were a number of queer birds quite new to
Roland. He thought the water-turkey with its long,
snake-like neck, the oddest of all, There were buz-


CAMPING ON T



MAINLAND OF FLORIDA.



ROLAND STRIKES GAME. 51

zards, hawks, man-of-war birds, red and white ibis,
together with others, so.that the evening air seemed
filled with bird life.

Roland was tremendously excited at sight of some
moving object along the fringe of woods. Was it
a panther? They knew this animal prowled through
the woods of Florida, in places far away from civiliza-
tion, and it would not have been very singular to have
run across him here.

It turned out to be a’coon, however. Roland knock-
ed him over, and Andy dressed him. The flesh tasted
like pork, but neither of the boys took a particular
fancy to it.

The mosquitoes proved very troublesome for a brief
time, but the north wind, although not cold, seemed
chilly enough to drive them away.

Through the early night the boys slept soundly.
They had rigged up a rude tent on shore with their

canoe masts and sails, together with a piece of canvas
and a rubber blanket.

In front of this burned the fire.

The tent faced the south, and there was a good rea-
son for this, as the north wind blew the smoke away.
Pine wood is generally used in Florida for camp-fires.
It burns fiercely, emits a tremendous heat, but along
with it discharges a black smoke that plunges every
cooking utensil into mourning. There is no trouble
in cleansing said articles, however, for plenty of sand is
generally to be found, and witha handful of Spanish
moss, that drapes the live oaks and cypress-trees in
all sections, a shine is imparted that would be the
envy of a French cook.
52 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

During the night Roland awoke.

Something seemed to have tapped the canvas tent-
cover a light blow just beside his head. He did not
know whether he had been dreaming or not, and lay
still to listen, although his right hand unconsciously
crept toward the little revolver he carried.

Again it came. At the same time he became con-
scious that the form of an animal was outlined upon
the canvas by the newly-risen moon.

He could not exactly make out what it was, but the
shape suggested the cat species. Was this nocturnal
visitor a panther? Roland felt his heart beat more
rapidly than was its wont, but otherwise he remained
perfectly cool.

There seemed no necessity for arousing Andy, as the
animal would doubtless fly at the first movement of
the kind.

Determined to at least try a shot, Roland worked
his weapon up until he had covered the point that
seemed desirable. Just then the animal tapped: the
canvas again lightly, as though this strange affair
had aroused its curiosity.

Roland pulled the trigger. There was aloud report,
a scream from without, and a shout from Roland’s
fellow-cruiser, who, awakened thus rudely from a sound
slumber, could not help believing that an earthquake
or something siiilar had occurred.

“What's up, Sea Urchin ?’’ he demanded, as he
came in contact with the other.

“Pve shot a panther, I guess,” replied Roland, try-
ing to appear cool.

‘«The deuce you have! Go out and see. Pick up
ROLAND STRIKES GAME. 5S

the shotgun—right barrel has buckshot in it, you know.
Now go it!”

Roland sprang outside. The moon was shining
brightly, the north wind soughed in the pines, but no
living thing appeared to be in sight.

««Where’s your game, Rolly?” called Andy from
the opening of the tent.

«Tt was right here, outlined against the tent. I hit
him, I’m positive, Andy. See, this is blood on the
white sand here. And there’s the rogue crawling
off. Watch me, Andy. Halt! you beggar, or—”’

Roland had thrown the little twelve-bore Parker to
his shoulder, and, as he spoke, pulled the trigger. With
the report the crawling animal was seen to give one
spasmodic leap into the air, and then fell back upon
the sand close to the shelter of the trees it had been
trying to reach. Roland rushed forward and was
soon bending over the prize. It proved to be a wild-
cat of an unusual size ‘for Florida, though Roland had
seen much larger ones up in Canada and Maine woods.

All animals and many birds in Florida are smaller
than specimens of the same spécies found in colder
countries. This is natural, as the natives of a warm
climate never equal those of the cold in stature and
endurance. _

The black bass of the north is a hard fighter and a
game fish of the first caliber. His cbusin of Florida,
though of an enormous size, when hooked comes in
like a log, seldom breaking water. In a few places,
when caught where the water is prackish, he shows
more pluck, but can never be called first-class game.

Roland took one of the wild-cat’s claws as a trophy,
54. PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

to remind him in the future of this midnight adventure |
on Cape Sable. Then the boys retired to rest again.

There was no further alarm, and morning came with

a clear sky. The wind was still strong in the north,

and as progress would be unprofitable, and not pay

, them for their trouble, they determined to remain in

“ camp and await a change in the weather.

Surrounded as they were by good hunting ground,
there was no reason why they should be idle.

So a hunt was organized. Roland took the rifle
while Andy shouldered the Parker.

A code of signals was arranged between them, and
then they set out, each determined to bring some sort
of game into camp. The canoes had been drawn well
up and anchored where no harm could come to them,


CHAPTER VIII.

OFF FOR THE EVERGLADES.








naman

D a:

2

0
»
nf
ot







— 7
PS

LVI? a PT,”
i a

NDY tramped in anortheaster-
ly direction. He saw a num-
ber of squirrels, and might
have laid some of them low,
but he was determined to try
for a turkey.

In the early morning he
had heard a gobble-gobble
away off in this direction, and

felt that if he could get but a shot at the fellow from

whom it emanated it would be all that he might ask.

When he came to what seemed to be a small ravine
in the woods, he followed it up, as the most likely
place to find his game. Finally he squatted down be-
hind a tree and gave a gobble that seemed a fair imi-
tation of the genuine cry.

When he had repeated this several times he was
gratified to hear an answer. So he kept up the little
game, the reply growing more and more distinct as
the bird strutted nearer, anxious to meet itskind. All
at once Andy cocked his head in a knowing way, and
something very like a smile crept over his face.

“ That’s the queerest ola Turk I ever met, and it’s

Sie



ye
Cxe

LPIA






pee

nn
WSS ett Be



SAO VARY Z
i SAE [ZY SRY AY)



BY
ex


56 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

my humble impression there is something of a fraud
about it. Let’s see.’’

He gave another gobble, and wound up with the
bray of a donkey.

‘“‘Halloo there, Mabel/ what are you doing here, and
where’s my fat gobbler?”’

Roland stalked into view, alook of blank amazement
and disappointment on his young face. Andrew burst
out into a laugh.

“You see we’ve been practicing on each other’s cre-
dulity. Another case of a mutual-admiration society,
eh, Rolly ?”

“T never dreamed it was you. Perhaps it’s lucky
you guessed the truth so soon, or possibly some evil
consequences might have followed.”’

“Well, suppose you let turkey-shooting alone to-day
unless you actually see one. There ought to be deer
about here, off to the northwest.’’

«We know there is one at least, as we saw its sign
yesterday evening. I’m off.’’ ;

So Roland stalked away. He walked quite a distance.
The woods were open now, and he could see for a long
space all around him. Further north upon the penin-
sula deer are usually found upon “burns.’”’ These
are patches of land, generally prairie, where the own-
ers of cattle or their cowboys set fire to the old dead
grass and burn it off, for the young green to shoot up
so as to make fresh browsing-places for the animals.

The deer also seek these places, and often to meet
their death, for Seminole Indians hunt them merci-
lessly. Generally those bronzed remnants of a once
glorious tribe hunt in a way that threatens to soon ex-
OFF FOR THE EVERGLADES. 57

terminate the deer of Florida, driving them to a cer-
tain point with a “surround” and big smoke, when
the poor animals are slaughtered, mostly for their

hides alone. i

It was nearly noon when Roland secured along shot
ata small deer. The Colt’s repeating rifle was not
only a powerful shooter but accurate as well, and Ro-
land, being possessed of considerable experience, plant-
ed his bullet where it would do the most good.

When he had dressed his prize for carrying, he plac-
ed it upon his shoulders and started back to camp.
Not until he had tramped for an hour did he realize
that he did not exactly know where the camp lay.

So he stopped to take his bearings, and then once
more moved on. Twenty minutes later he came
to water. It was Cape Sable Creek. Following this
down, he finally sighted. the boats. Smoke was arising
from the shore, and this in itself proved that Andy had
returned before him.

He saw a turkey hanging from one of the paddles
that helped to form the ridge-pole of the rude tent.
Then his companion had not returned without the
game he sought.

** Ahoy there in camp !”

Andrew sprang up.

“Good for you, Sea Urchin ! A whole deer, and you
look hot and tired.”

‘‘Tam. Bless me if I ever try to lug such a fellow
home again. It’s too much.”

They had a royal dinner. When it was over both
lay back fora nap. Roland was a nervous chap, and
could seldom keep quiet long, so when Andy opened
58 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

his eyes later on he found that his fellow-cruiser was
using the cast-net along in the shallow water.

Have you ever seen a cast-net, reader? It is an in-
dispensable adjunct to Florida fishing, as with it alone
mullet can be secured, and this fish forms the food of
almost every salt-water fish to be caught along the
shores of the Pelican State.

The net has a combination of lead weights, and lead-
ing-strings that pass up through a horn ring at the top.
Itis cast with a rotary motion by the aid of hands
and teeth, falls flat on the water, the leads plunge
down, enclosing the fish, and then the net is drawn into
a purse by a pull at the rope.

A little practice makes one fairly proficient in its use.

Roland succeeded in capturing some dozens of mullet,
several of which were of a good size.

“Tsay, Sea Urchin!

“Well, what is it?

‘Look out for your legs. There’s a shark!”

Sure enough, the dorsal fin of a shark could be seen
cutting the water in erratic curves as the monster
hunted a meal in the wide stream, and Roland made a
plunge for the shore.

*“ Would you like to catch that pirate, Rolly ?”

** Decidedly—yes.”

“Then get out your tackle and we’ll have a try at
him.”’

While Roland arranged the large shark-hook and
chain to the end of amanilla rope, Andy pounded down
a snubbing-post on shore. The hook was baited with
a large mullet, and Andy took it outin his canoe, drop-
ping it in the middle of the stream. Before he reached
OFF FOR THE EVERGLADES. 59

the shore there was a bite. Slowly the rope moved
away, stopped, and then again went on.

“Give him a hitch, Rolly.’’

The other let the shark feel the steel, and instantly
there was acommotion. With a great splash the fish
dashed toward the inlet.

“Snub him, quick, or he’ll pull you in! ”

Roland sprang around the post—there was a shock,
and the shark came up all standing. After a severe
strain they drew the dreadful fish near enough to land
for Rolly to send a bullet from the repeating-rifle into
its head, after which it was drawn up on the sand for
examination.

On the next morning, the wind being fair, the two
canoes left Cape Sable Creek and started up the Gulf
coast. There lay before them several hundred miles
of the finest cruising ground in the world, and which
was filled with possibilities such as would thrill the
boldest heart.

Once the Ten Thousand Islands were gained, they
meant to pass up through White Water Bay and feel
their way into that wonderful region of which so little
is really known, and where a cedar canoe had never
cruised before—the lonely lakes, islands and swamps
known as the Everglades of South Florida, the former
home of Osceola and his valiant Seminoles.
CHAPTER IX.

CANOE LIFE AMONG THE KEYS.





T was high noon when Andy worked
near the Sea Urchin and asked
if the young skipper did not
, feel hungry.

"Roland was ravenous. The
;’ Salty air had given him an ap-
“""=" netite the like of which he had
“* never known before; so he an-
nounced himself in splendid
condition to punish something
in the way of food.

‘“What shall it be, a cold lunch or a hot dinner?”
he asked.

Andy looked around toward the shore, near which
they were then sailing.

“See here, we might as well be as comfortable as
possible. We have no need of haste, as the whole
winter lies before us.”

“Just as true as you live. Now, what is it you would
suggest, Andy?”

The other continued the argument to defend his
position, just as if Roland had not readily acquiesced.
It was a way he had,
CANOE LIFE AMONG THE KEYS. 61

“‘T saw the wind was going down. It will rise again
about three- Then I noticed quite a numerous array
of beach birds along the shore. They quite made
my mouth water. See, there goes a flock skimming
along. Halloo! whither bound, Rolly?”

“Tm for the shore. Farewell, fellow-cruiser.”’

“Not much. I’m in that deal myself.”

So both canoes were headed shoreward, and in ten
minutes had run their sharp noses upon the mud flats
that here abounded. Meanwhile each of the boys had
donned a stout pair of rubber boots. These articles
are really an indispensable part of the outfit of a
Florida cruiser, and may be put to a great variety of
uses.

Overboard they tumbled. In another minute the
stanch little craft were drawn up on the muddy
beach. Just back of the spot were the inevitable
mangroves.

It was low tide. At such times the bay birds are to
be found busily engaged upon the mud flats, picking
up morsels of food left behind by the retreating ocean.

“You light the fire, Andy, while I secure our din-
ner,’’ said Roland.

Picking up the little Parker and half a dozen shells,
he was off.

Left alone, Andrew proceeded to get his share of the
affair in working order. He gathered some wood,
such as could be found, using his little camp hatchet
to chop with. -

Soon asmoke curled up and announced that the fire at
least was ready for business. When this duty had been
accomplished Andy got out a sheet-iron frying-pan
62 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

and coffee-pot. Into the former he put a couple of
pieces of salt pork, and allowed it to simmer while he
measured out the water for the coffee from the can in
his boat. :

Just as he was placing the coffee-pot upon a place
prepared for it at the fire where it would soon boil, he
heard two gun-shots, one following close upon the
other.

He smiled, and, holding up his hands, said :

“ T guess seven.”

The minutes passed away. The coffee boiled up
three times, and on each occasion had a dash of cold
water thrown in todampen its ardor. After its last
unsuccessful attempt to froth over it was placed aside
to settle. Already the bacon—as they call salt pork
down there, the other variety going as breakfast
bacon—was sizzling loudly in the pan, asthough im-
patient for its comrades in misery to appear.

Just then came a heavy report close by and Andy
sprang to his feet in some alarm. It was evident his
companion had fired both barrels of the shotgun at
once, and such an unusual occurrence aroused the
curiosity of the cruiser who had remained behind to
start the fire.

He was even meditating upon the advisability of
taking the repeating rifle and running in the direction
from whence the shots had come, when Roland sud-
denly appeared.

The latter had quite a bunch of bay birds fastened
by the heads in a peculiar loop of string. Andy was
surprised, not at the number but variety of his com-
panion’s haul. There were two yelpers also’ known
CANOE LIFE AMONG THE KEYS. 63

as the greater yellow-legs, robin snipe, a red-breasted
sandpiper known by this name along the Jersey and
New England coasts, one krieker (also a sandpiper),
and three jack curlew.

“Nine in all,”’ said Roland, as, with an expression
akin to disgust, he tossed gun and birds down.

“Come, what’s wrong?” asked Andy, as he pro-
ceeded in lightning style to prepare a robin snipe for
the pan. :

“T’m mad, and that’s a fact. Catch me ever going
without a buckshot cartridge again.”

Andy looked up quickly.

“* Ah! then you did fire that double load at big game.
What was it—a wild-cat?”?

“No, a deer.”

“ Jupiter ! so near the camp ?”

“Yes, and a beauty of a mark, but too far for
number eight shot, you know. I had plenty of time
to slip them in both barrels, and they might as well
have been buckshot. Then we'd have had game for
dinner that was worth something.”’

“It is a lesson, anyway, Andy. Come, we’ll fix the
shells in the belt so that an y one taking the Parker out
will be supplied for an emergency.’

Roland brightened up under this inspiration and
even set to work upon a krieker. It was not lon g& be-
fore such of the birds as they desired were sputtering
in the pan. Then condensed milk, ship biscuit and a
few other things were produced from the lockers of
the canoes.

“* Just as I predicted,” said Andy, as they sat down,
tailor fashion, to dinner.
64 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Following the direction of his finger, Roland saw
that the wind had almost completely died out, and the
Gulf was rapidly growing calm.

They had not lost much time in deciding to come
ashore and have a cooked dinner.

When the meal was over they lay back and enjoyed
themselves basking in the warm sunshine, and won-
dering what their friends up North were doing on this
ninth day of January—for this was the day they left
Cape Sable Creek.

“ Shoveling snow, I warrant,’ remarked Roland,
and both boys laughed at the conceit.

They considered themselves as exceedingly fortunate
in being permitted to knock around in such a genial
climate while their friends were being half frozen at
home.

Before three o’clock a breeze started up, and both
canoes were soon making good time along the coast.
As the breeze was light, they brought every inchof
sail to bear.

The miniature craft bowled along quite merrily,
while their daring and light-hearted skippers sat aft,
bracing themselves against the dandy masts and en-
joying themselves hugely.

This was one of the pleasant spots to be marked with
a blue cross in the log of the cruise. There were
enough shadows along the course to make the con-
trasts decidedly interesting.

By and by the wind took a notion to increase its

‘force. Roland shifted his weight to the weather rail,
and kept a watchful eye upon the Mabel, which was
about seventy feet ahead of him,
CANOE LIFE AMONG THE KEYS. 65

When he saw Andy stow his dandy he immediately
followed suit. Already quite a little sea had been
kicked up. The cedar boats started along like birds
upon the wing.

The breeze was growing too strong for even the main-
sail, and Roland was glad to see his companion come
to this conclusion and round-to for the purpose of tak-
ing in a double reef.

Thus both craft were together when they started
out oncemore. Andy had shouted out his plan to his
comrade, who approved of it.

Although the sky was clear, the breeze kept on in-
creasing until Roland feared his mast would be
blown from its socket or something give way. As
before, he was delighted with the working of the Sea
Urchin. She rode the heavy swells with the buoyancy
of aduck, and recovered almost instantly whenever a
counter sea slapped her heavily on the planking.

Nevertheless her skipper looked longingly ahead to
where a key was to be seen, and speculated upon the
probability of their reaching it without an accident.

They approached the key with racehorse speed. It
was not Andy’s intention to land, however, for the
waves dashed madly over the muddy beach, throwing
clouds of spray over the mangroves.

Thousands of great birds soared through the air
above; cormorants, man-o’-war birds, ospreys, buz-
zards, eagles and even others. Upon the mangroves
could be seen many water-turkeys, that queerest of
all queer birds in Florida, while pelicans rode the great
waves all around the boats with as much unconcern as
so many corks.
66 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

The canoes were now steered so as to enter the pass
between the key and the mainland. Here the force of
the wind was broken and the water comparatively quiet.
This is one of the best features of cruising along the
Gulf coast, although there is considerable outside work
* tobe done. The gulf is generally calm, or at least only
a favorable breeze blowing. Should a storm come up,
one can at almost any time get under the lee of a man-

‘grove key. Indeed, the larger part of the cruising is
done in the broad or narrow channels lying between
these keys and the mainland.

On the Atlantic coast it is different. There is a
dangerous outside passage, with no harbor, between
Matanzas inlet at St. Augustine and that of Mos-
quito inlet above New Smyrna. Then comes another,
south of Jupiter inlet to that of Lake Worth. An-
other long and dangerous outside run, exposed to the
sudden fury of the treacherous Atlantic, is the passage
between Lake Worth and Biscayne Bay. Taking it
all in all, the Atlantic coast does not offer half the
advantages to the enthusiastic canoeist that he will find
from Cedar Keys to Cape Sable along the Gulf shore.

Once in this sheltered water the boys sailed along
for quite a while in comfort, until the day began to
wane. The key also came to an end, and a sight of
the white caps and billows beyond warned the young
cruisers that it was time to wind up their day’s run.
It had been a profitable day, as splendid progress had
been made.

Soon the canoes headed in shore, and the boys used
their eyes to advantage looking for a snug cove where
they could anchor for the night.
CHAPTER X.

THE MUTTERING IN THE AIR,





— KS ye
A.M PD , 5 a
Set ae ERE we are, comrade.
We

NS Roland urged the Sea Urchin
Â¥ into the cove he had found, and
Andy followed suit. A glance
around showed them that it was a
splendid harbor, almost land-locked.
They selected positions and cast their an-
chors. The mud hooks could be changed
when they were about to retire. Meanwhile
they desired to remain alongside and chat
; while they ate their evening meal.

Such a life as our two boys were now leading would
do wonders for a dyspeptic. The open air, healthy ex-
ercise and salty breezes developed what was really an
abnormal appetite in the cruisers, so that it would be
folly in our omitting everything that pertained to their
meals, when the preparation and demolition of them
occupied such a large share of their every-day atten-
tion.

Truth to tell, there was much of interest in the
unique manner of their doing their culinary labors.
Andy was a bright student, and developed resources
that no one would have believed lay in a boy’s mind.





68 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

He loved to meet a difficulty face to face and solve
the secret.. Sometimes this was done as Alexander of
old cut the Gordian knot, with a blow of his sword.
That was his way of brushing difficulties aside.

The reader will forgive us if we go into detail occa-
sionally with regard to what was upon the canoe bill of
fare, as information may thus be imparted that would
be valuable to any intending cruiser.

Supper over, the boys lay back and talked awhile
as they smoked their pipes. The tents had been put
up aS soon as anchors were cast out. Inside of each
was the mosquito net of coarse cheese-cloth, which
would pretty effectually exclude any insect pest they
might run across.

They certainly came into use on this night, for the
mosquitoes were plenty. Andy pronounced the ma-
jority of them “ blind’? mosquitoes and harmless ;
but there were a few of the vicious kind, so it would
pay them to be careful.

Each of the canoeists kept a separate log in which
the stirring events of the day were jotted down on
each evening while fresh in the memory. Thus, if one
of the books were lost, the log of the cruise would still
remain.

The log written up, each of them did a little in the
line of correspondence, the letters being mailed at the
first available opportunity. There was no chance
ahead for many weeks to come, but they might meet
a sponger or turtler bound for Key West at any time,
and the skipper of which would gladly mail their let-
ters.

Such accommodation is common along the coast of
THE MUTTERING IN THE AIR. 69

Florida, where one meets genial fellows, though un-
couth many of them may be.

‘Nine o’clock, comrade,’? sung out Andy from
within the recesses of his tent.

‘¢Time to anchor out for the night, and then fora
jolly sleep,’ returned Roland.

Andrew remained where he was, but his comrade
pulled off some twenty feet, when he threw his anchor
out. This gave them plenty of swinging room. Ina
short time both weary cruisers were far gone in the
land of Nod.

Roland was awakened by awild flapping of his tent.
He noticed that the little Sea Urchin was bobbing up
and down in a way suggestive of quite a heavy sea.

Something had occurred to change the looks of
things since they retired.

It was beautifully clear overhead—indeed, as Roland
poked his head out he thought he had never seen the
stars shine more brilliantly.

‘“*Halloo, Sea Urchin Ll’

Ah! Andy was on the alert. Looking over to his
boat, Roland could just make out the head of his
‘friend poking out.

““ What’s the row, Andy ?”’

“The wind has whipped around due 6H. by E. I.
never dreamed it would happen. We are exposed
here. No danger, but it’s rather unpleasant to have
your tent flapping so wildly about your ears. Shall
we change anchorage ?”’

“Yes. I’m going to pull over to the mangroves
yonder and tie up to one of them until morning.”

“ Bright thought, my boy. I’ll follow suit.”
70 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

In this position they were sheltered from the wind
in its new quarter, and the balance of the night was
spent comfortably.

With the morning they prepared to move on.
Knowing the month so well, Andy believed it was
time for another Norther. This was what bothered
them the most of all. Roland was overhauling his
kit and repacking ina more compact shape when he
was startled by the loud report of the Colt’s rifle.

“Got him,” said Andy quietly.

_ There was a fluttering in the air, and a great crane
fell almost at their feet. Andy had made a very neat
wing shot with the rifle, something to be proud of.

“‘ How Id like to stuff that fellow !” said Roland, as
he, spread out the wings and looked at the yellow-
green legs; “‘but there’s no need of it—we can get
more later on.’’

‘*Yes, wait until we strike a roost in the Ever-
glades.”’

“A ‘roost’? What is that ?”

“Where thousands of birds come together to roost
for the night. It is generally some favored spot
where the trees are more than ordinarily heavy, for.
the weight of these great birds is enormous.’

“Ts it not their nesting place, then ?”

“Oh! no. That is a separate place entirely. Per-
haps we may have an opportunity of seeing such a
roost before we are done.”

All was soon in readiness for business. They start-
ed, filled with anticipations of pleasure for the day.
Everything seemed so lovely, one could hardly believe
evil would follow.
THE MUTTERING IN THE AIR. 74

Andrew, however, knew something of Florida cli-
mate. He had learned one great fact—never to trust
to appearances there. The fairest of days was apt to
be succeeded by the wildest of windy nights, so sud-
denly does the terrible Norther sweep down upon them.
Andy had figured that one of these storms was about
due, and he kept his weather-eye open for it, as he de-
clared.

If they could only be in safe quarters when it arriv-
ed, let it howl; but to be caught out upon the open
water would be both unpleasant and dangerous.

Their progress was slow. The breeze came in fit-
ful gusts. More than once they were compelled to
take to their paddles in order to move, when the dying
wind left them in the middle of the broad sound
stretching between some outlying key and the’shore.

They knew they must be near the wonderful conglom-
eration known as the Ten Thousand Islands. This
was an object in view. It marked the entrance to the
bay which they must enter in order to reach the Ever-
glades.

Their charts were not complete, and as to being per-
fect such a thing was really impossible, considering the
tremendous difficulties in the way of the men who
made the Government survey. They would prove a
great help, however, in navigating that wonderful mass
of water and vegetation.

Slowly their day passed by.

Andrew, being on the alert, was the first to discover
signs of clouds banking in the north. He drew the at-
tention of his companion to them.

“ That means business, comrade.”


72 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

‘When will it strike us, do you think ?”’

“By midnight, I should judge.”

- We'll beprepared,’’ returned Roland philosophi-
cally,

He was growing accustomed to such storms by this
time. They failed to arouse any decided alarm or even
interest in him.

That afternoon they fastened up behind a very small
island of mangroves. It was the only thing that pre-
sented itself. Tents went up, and soon the cheerful
odor of the evening meal could be discovered in the
still air. After this had been finished the boys pre-
pared for the night. It was the same thing over
again.

‘When Roland looked out for the last time ere surren-
dering himself, rescue or no rescue, into the keeping of
the drowsy god, the skies were fair. It seemed to
him that there was a far-off murmur in the air, but
this might have been only the droning of insects among
the mangroves, or perhaps the pounding of water upon
the shore at some distant point where the wind had
started into life again. Roland turned in, and in
five minutes he was fast asleep, dreaming of his far-
away Northern home.
CHAPTER XI.

STRIKING THE SILVER KING.

ITH a screech and a roar the
Norther broke upon them an
hour after midnight. Roland
sprang up to a sitting posture,

N\ His tent was flapping wildly,

— and to his consternation he

== discovered that he was mov-

ing through the water.

The alarming truth burst upon him—he was drag-
ging his anchor, and would soon be out upon the open
water. So long asthe anchor served as a drag the
bow was presented to the wind and it would not be so
bad ; but let it slip off into deep water, and the canoe,
presenting her broadside to the gale, would be readily
overturned.

These things flashed through the boy’s mind with
the rapidity of thought. Something must bedone, and
that immediately.

Inspired by the occasion, Roland seized upon his sec-
ond anchor. While he opened the flukes the wind was
singing in his ears like a nest of mad hornets. Still
he preserved his self-possession, and this was what
saved him.




14. PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

No sooner was the little Chester anchor, attached as
it was to another cable, rigged, than Roland unbutton-
ed the fore part of the tent and cast it out.

All was inky darkness. The wind howled and the
water already rolled along with a savage hiss. Speed-
ily the cable was paid out. To the delight of the cast-
away, it held. The canoe no longer moved through the
water.

This was good enough so far as it went, but Roland
knew much more had to be done. He quickly stowed
away his blankets and reached for his oilskins.
When he had donned these he was ready for the busi-
ness in hand.

The tent was stowed away with some difficulty, and
an apron buttoned over the cockpit. While engaged
in this work Roland saw a light upon the water ahead.
It cheered him, knowing that it proceeded from the
tent of his comrade. He took hold of his horn, and
blew a blast upon it that reached Andy’s ear, for he
answered it.

Now began the work of regaining his former posi-
tion behind the mangrove island.

A paddle would not have done the business, for he
could not have done more than held his own against
such a sea and wind.

Luckily there was another method of accomplishing
the same thing. Roland drew in the useless anchor.
Then he began to shorten the cable of the other. The
tent being down, the strain amounted to very little now,
so that he was able to accomplish his purpose. When
almost above the holding anchor he heaved the other
ahead just as far as his arm could do it.
STRIKING THE SILVER KING. 15

Thus, a dozen feet or soat a time, the energetic
young cruiser worked his way back to where the
Mabel bobbed at her anchorage. He tied up to the
mangroves, cast a stern anchor out, and then began
to put up his tent again, for the rain was coming
down quite lively.

‘Well done, Rolly!’ said Andrew, when, by the
light in the Sea Urchin’s tent, he knew all was snug.
’ It had been quite an exciting episode for Roland,
and he had come out of it with honor.

The Norther proved to be short-lived. Perhaps the
very ficrceness of its assault caused it to blow out so
speedily. When morning came it had settled down to
a steady breeze a point or so north of N. H.

The boys concluded that there was no further need
of their hugging the little mangrove island when they
had a chance of beating to windward.

So they put off about eight o’clock. A long lez was
taken on the starboard tack, and then a whip across
to the east until within a short distance of land. Then
another long leg of several miles was made. This
brought them to noon, and, anchoring near a key, they
ate a cold lunch.

When they were ready to move again, the wind was
coming directly out of the east. This was a favorable
breeze for progress with them, and the rest of the day
was put to good service.

That night they ran up a little creek that was dis-
covered by accident. Andrew bent over and tasted of
the water when they had gone up for a little distance..

“* Almost fresh, I declare!”

“Yes, and there is a perceptible current setting in
"6 PADDLING IN FLORIDA,

toward the Gulf, although the tide is on the young
flood.””

“That means one of those splendid, mysterious
streams flowing out of the ground, such as the great
Silver Spring at the head of the Ockawaha river, or
Crystal Spring on the Gulf hamak below Cedar
Keys.”’

“Ts it far away, do you suppose? ”’

“‘T do not think so. We will paddle up as far as
we can, and in the morning make a determined effort
to find it. To fill our cans with clear, fresh water now
would be a blessing.”’

In the morning the bubbling, boiling spring was
discovered, and every available receptacle filled, for
it would probably be weeks ere they could secure more
of the same sort.

“Look yonder, Andy! Smoke, I declare! I wonder
what’s up? Some one has a fire. Suppose you take
the gun and investigate.”’

Nothing loth, the older cruiser pulled on his rubber
boots and went over the knoll. The smoke came from
the foot of a great tree.
Andy guessed the truth.

“Jove! a honey-gatherer. There he comes down
the vines that hang to the tree.’’

Sure enough, a native ‘‘ cracker ”’ with a pack-basket
on his back came slipping down. The honey-gatherer
was a queer fellow, half-witted, and actually dangled
an old Confederate sword at his heels; but he was
death on bees, and had gallons of the wild honey stored
in his old boat, hidden near by. Andy bought a can
and lugged it over to the canoes. They kept an eye


“The honey-gatherer was a queer fellow, half witted, and actually
carried an old Yonfederate saber dangling at his heels,”

STRIKING THE SILVER KING. 79

out for bees themselves, and later had a chance to lay
in a store of honey.

So they set out for open water again and paddled
to the mouth of the little stream, where, finding things
favorable, they threw both mainsail and dandy to the
breeze, standing over in a westerly course for the low
key that seemed to be a mile from the shore, but
which was in reality two of them.

The day was one of disappointments, and yet they
managed to make pretty good time, so that,as evening
drew on, Andrew, consulting his chart, declared an-
other day would see them at the point where they
meant to leave the Gulf.

This was cheering news to them, for like all persons,
they liked a change. Perhaps before they had been in
the swamps long they would wish themselves once
more on the salt water of the Gulf.

Roland as yet had found neither the time nor oppor-
tunity to do much fishing.

It was not from lack of fish, for at times they fairly
made the water boil, such were their numbers and
ferocity.

_ Especially was this the case when they were near an
inlet where the waters of the Gulf at flood tide rushed
into the more quiet lagoons near by.

There one could haul in many varieties of fish with
hardly an effort save that of tugging at the line.

Andy had a big record in this line, but Roland had
much to learn, though a true disciple of Isaac Walton.
He had fished many a time in Northern waters and
was well acquainted with the various finny members
of the various streams,
80 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

That evening, after an early supper, Roland got out
his fishing tackle and prepared to try for big game.
He baited the large hook and cast it over, having
seen a number of fins in the shallow water, which Andy
told him belonged to that silver king, acrobatic leaper,
the tarpon.

The sun had set. A golden radiance seemed to hang
over the western heavens, and upon the still waters
an air of solitude reigned, broken only by the splash
of the mullet or the cry of some hungry bird of prey.

A pelican came sailing along close to the water,
with broad wings extended, and eye on the alert for
a good spot to drop in order to get his fill of small
mullet.

Outside a school of porpoises went rolling by, leav-
ing quite a wake behind.

It was a dreamy scene. They had come to some
live-oak trees and fastened up under them. The long,
pendent moss was swaying to and fro as the wind
came gently higher up among the trees, although
scarce a ripple was upon the water.

Falling into a sort of reverie, Roland was suddenly
aroused by feeling the line slowly taken from his
hands. He had a strike. To give line was his first
thought, and presently the fish had taken thirty feet
or more.

Then came a pause. Roland knew the time had
come to sink the barb home. He tightened the line
and then struck.

There was an immediate commotion in the water.
The line ran off the reel like lightning fora few seconds.
Then the water parted and the great silvery fish
STRIKING THE SILVER KING. 81

sprang several feet up into the air, shaking his head as a
terrier would shake a rat.

Roland had been well coached. He gave a slack
line as soon as he saw the fish leave the water, and
hence it was impossible for the tarpon to dislodge the
hook.

Then he went spinning through the water again.
Roland had been prepared for the emergency. He
had a buoy fastened to his anchor. All he had to do
was to cast the cable off, and the canoe was free to
follow at will. :

He tightened up the line. The stout rod bent but
did not break. Hurrah! he was off. The Sea Urchin
was gliding through the water, propelled by fish
power—Neptune drawn by dolphins over again.

When the tarpon pulled too hard and the strain
became great, Roland gave him line, to recover it later
whenever the chance occurred.

Again and again the magnificent game fish sprang
out of the water, disclosing his whole proportions in
the air. Once he actually leaped over the canoe. As
time went on he showed sigus of becoming wearied, so
that finally the young sportsman was enabled to sink
the gaff into his side and kill him,

It was a great capture.

When they came to measure the fish it lacked but
two inches of being six feet in length, and the boys,
giving a rough guess, judged that he weighed over
one hundred and twenty-five pounds.

Roland was tired out. He fished no more that
evening. Andy had occupied his time pulling in
Sheepshead, so that they had more than enough for
82 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

breakfast. Among the other fish were several cre-
valle, and a peculiar one which Andy called a sergeant
fish. It had a stripe running along its side like a bar,
but it was full of bones and of no account as a food fish.

Again they were on the move as morning came, and
working along they managed to make fair headway.
Andrew had his eyes fastened upon the mass of vege-
tation ahead. He consulted hig chart frequently, and
seemed satisfied with the progress they were making.

“ Alabama—here we rest, Rolly,” he cried, at about
four o’clock, as he ran the nose of the Mabel close up
to one of the numerous mangrove islands among which
they had now entered.

“ For to-night ?”’

“Yes; and we might as well stow masts and sails
away for some time, as I do not believe we will have a
chance to sail again soon.”

““Then paddling is the word.”

“Yes. We must depend on spruce blades among
these islands and the Everglades. In the morning we
will start inland.”

Roland was thrilled with the thought of the new
scenes and adventures that awaited them on the
morrow,
CHAPTER XII.

THE FIRST ALLIGATOR SERENADE.

WL HEY sat up quite late that
night, talking over events that
Sah WAY had happened in the past. An-
ING ere drew had seen considerable in
life. His disposition was a rov-
ing one, and yet he managed to
pick up a wonderful amount of
knowledge for so young a fellow.

It would be hard to talk upon any subject
with which he was not familiar, and as a
canoe cruiser he had spent much time upon
the waters. He could tell of cruises in
Maine, moose-shooting away up in the wilds of New
Brunswick, adventures out in the Rocky Mountains,
and of his trips upon the waters of the Mississippi
basin.

It may readily be supposed that he was a most
agreeable companion to have along. In times of emer-
gency he was full of expedients, and no difficulty
seemed able to stagger him. Indeed, seeing the light
of determination flash over his strong young face when
Some trouble came in their way, Roland actually: be-
lieved his companion really enjoyed a tussle with Fate,


84: PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Andy was modest withal. He generally related
what he had seen, although now and again an adven-
ture of his own crept in.

So they sat up late, talking of home and the past.
On the morrow they would part from the Gulf, with
its salty breezes, and begin a new experience, working
through swampy regions toward the wonderful Ever-
glades, where the last remnants of the once powerful
Seminoles had their homes.

The air was so balmy they seemed to enjoy every
breath they drew. It was glorious. And yet they dis-
liked leaving the Gulf. It was like parting from an
old friend. Neither expressed any desire to back out,
as their course was laid.

“ Good-by, old Gulf!” cried Roland in the morning
as he waved the broad expanse of water farewell with
his paddle raised in the air.

‘<7 hope we will see it again ere many weeks, when
we pass Fort Myers and come out at Punta Rassa,
where lies the mouth of the Caloosahatchee River.’’

The paddles dipped into the water.

They were off !

Andrew took the lead. Together they had studied
the charts on the previous night. The route had been
laid out, although of course it was subject to change.
Something might occur, so that they would want to
alter it. Under such conditions they meant to be gov-
erned by circumstances. As the sun arose and began
to get in his work, the day gave promise of being a hot
one. Our cruisers soon discarded coats and shoes, and
worked quietly with the spruce blades.

They were inno hurry. The whole winter lay be-
THE FIRST ALLIGATOR SERENADE. 85

fore them, so to speak. It was better to go slow and
make sure of their way. Too much haste might bring
them into some difficulty that would cause a waste of
time and no little confusion.

Even with the utmost caution, it will be seen later
that the boys lost themselves in that labyrinth whith-
er they were now bound.

The boats were well provisioned for the cruise, and
as they could eke out with game on the way there was
no danger of starvation. Water was what trouble@
them the most, or rather the scarcity of it. True, they
would be surrounded by fresh water at all times, but
to drink much of this was to invite an attack of ma-
laria or else some break-bone fever.

One way it might be utilized in case they had to come
to it, as was very likely to happen. When boiled, the
disease germs it contained would be destroyed, and it
could then be drank with impunity.

At noon they had made fair progress, and both of
them were satisfied with the work done. They were
still among the Ten Thousand Islands. The water was
salty, although not so much so as when upon the Gulf.

After a cold lunch the work was resumed and pro-
gress made. The scenery around them was far from
being beautiful. It consisted of sluggish water, mud-
flats and mangrove islands.

They were hemmed in all day with theselatter. In-
deed, at times their passage seemed blocked ahead, but
the chart, such as it was, helped them amazingly, and .
the trouble was brushed aside.

These mangroves are peculiar things. Down in this
region they assume the respectability ofa tree. Away
86 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

up on the Halifax River, on the east shore around Day.
tona, they are bushes. Their size appears to increase
with the more tropical climate. They love the water,
and are generally found where the tide will cover their
gnarled roots when at the flood. At ebb tide one can
walk upon these interlaced roots for miles. See how
wonderfully nature provides for their propagation !
The seed is like a verylarge cigar. "When ripe it falls,
sharp end down, into the soft mud below, and takes
root quickly. Any other kind of seed would be washed
away. Some plants drop their seed in the shape of a
light ball, which is dashed along by the wind until it
reaches some damp place suitable for growth, when it
takes root. Others, like our common thistie, have the
seed blown through the air to distant parts. These
plants desire to scatter, while with the mangrove it
is an object to concentrate.

At night the little canoe fleet—if one can so term the
expedition—tied up to the mangroves. The mosquitoes
were found to be so furious, however, that the boys
changed their location, this time anchoring in the mid-
dle of a wide lagoon. There was no danger of being
swept away by a wind-storm here.

Nothing unusual happened on this night, and with
the dawn of another day they were again ready to pro-
ceed. The morning opened with a cloudy sky, and all
day it was threatening, but the rain did not descend
until nearly night. Then the boys had to make haste
to get the tents up in order to spare themselves wet
jackets.

It was chilly enough to make it comfortable in the
boats with the battery of flamme force lamps going.
THE FIRST ALLIGATOR SERENADE. 87

Over these they cooked their supper. Roland made a
canoeist’s stew out of corned beef hashed up, some suc-
cotash and a small amount of crumbled ship biscuit ta
thicken it with. A cup of tea followed, and warmed
Roland up better than any other stimulant would have
done.

One thing the boys disliked about the canoes. They

were so small and crowded with necessary things that
there was no more room than the law allowed when
the tent was strung up. A single-handed cruiser, say
of five by sixteen, would have been large enough for
both to have come together, after the labors of the day
were over, and spent a comfortable evening in compa-
ny. As the next best thing they generally drew along-
side,and, keeping the mosquito netting down, conversed
from behind it. The rain kept up at intervals all that
night. When morning came it gave promise of being
anasty day. The wind seemed to be S. W., veer-
ing to W. Clouds hung low over them, and all day
this thing kept up.
’ Our boys, however, were no mollies. They declared
that they were not made of salt. Stowing things away
thoroughly, and buttoning the aprons over the cockpits
forward, they took hold inearnest. The paddles played
pretty much all day.

It was a wet thrash. Sometimes the wind literally
picked the water up and threw it afterthem. Luckily
they had it at their backs, and progress was much
easier than it would otherwise have been.

Both were glad when the day drew near its end and
they found a good place to lay up. They had reached
about the last of the mangrove islands. It was some-
88 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

thing which Andrew had reason to be proud of—navi-
gating the intricate passages of this labyrinth without
losing his reckoning once.

On the following day they hoped to begin their jour-
ney up the stream, at the mouth of which they were
anchored. It was down upon the map, and from ac-
counts he had heard, and the situation of certain things,
he believed it would lead them to the grassy waters of
the basin beyond—the lonely expanse of wilderness
called the Everglades.

During the night the wind shifted to the north.
There was a heavy thunderstorm about eight or nine
o’clock, but later on the clouds passed away and
the stars appeared. Andrew took an observation
about midnight and found the breeze strong in the
north.

During the whole of the next day they fought breeze
and current, although the latter did not amount to a
great deal.

New sights came to them as they progressed.
Birds that they had not seen along the coast were
here in the swamps, some of them possessing brilliant
plumage.

Roland secured a scarlet ibis, which gratified him
exceedingly, while Andy shot ata wood ibis, but the
bird was too far distant and flew on, though a falling
feather told he had not passed unscathed.

They kept a bright lookout for that remarkable
bird with the bright plumage and long legs, the scar-
let flamingo, but the bird-hunters have made this
beauty very scarce in even the wildest parts of Flor-
ida. Only once on his trip did Roland see this tall
THE FIRST ALLIGATOR SERENADE. 89

bird, and he was ready to go to great trouble in order
to secure a specimen of it.

When they drew their boats up that night, it was
upon a small island where grew asingle tree. Roland
climbed up and cut off some dead branches, which
would give them firewood the whole night. Andy had
a twinkle in his eye that his companion did not under-
stand, though he had a lurking suspicion that the
other was up to some mischief.

‘Shall we sleep on shore or in the boats, Andy ?”

“« Just as you say.”

“Well, do you know, this little island looks so
smooth and nice, I reckon we couldn’t do better than
to camp right here for the night. I get terribly
cramped in the boat.’’

“« Ditto! Come, carry the duffle ashore.”

The tent was made up. Roland saw that his com-
panion was more than ordinarily careful about ar-
ranging things before leaving the canoes, even hauling
them up on the bank further than seemed necessary.
He knew what it meant later. They lay down to
Sleep, Andrew with the rifle beside him.

“What in the world is this for, Andy? Do you
look for a wild-cat in the night? One would think we
might be safe from them here in the middle of the
drink.”

Andy grunted a reply and rolled over.

Some time later Roland was aroused from sleep by
a dream he had. Instantly he sat up. What in the
world was that noise? At first it came like a tremu-
lous grunting of some giant bull frog. Then camea bel-
low such as a bull would have uttered. Others joined
90 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

in, until Bedlam seemed to have been let loose.
Roland was really alarmed. Coming so soon
after a realistic dream, it seemed enough to startle
one.

“For goodness’ sake, what wild menagerie of bulls
has swooped down on us now ?”’

“ How d’ye like the serenade, Rolly ?”

«¢ Abominable !”’

“Well, you’ll have to get used to it.’

«« What is it—panthers or what ?”’

“ Bulls, my boy.”

*‘ Down here in this swampy region ? ”’

“‘Oh! they live in the water part of the time.”

«* Andy, you’re chaffing me.”

“ Alligator bulls.”’

Roland laughed.
- “JT see. Stupid that Iwas not to guess the truth
before! What a tremendous noise they keep up !
There’s nothing like getting used to a thing, I sup-
pose.”’

“« That’s logic.”

“No danger ?”’

‘“Not a bit. The fire keeps them away, and I have
just replenished it.”

“Then I’m off again.”

Roland rolled over and went to sleep. He did not
awaken again until morning, and then it was time to
getup. The alligator chorus had kept up through the
night, from a troubled grunt all the way up the
gamut to a terrific bellow.

“What's the cause of all this, Andy ?” asked the
other, as he watched the coffee boil up for the third
THE FIRST ALLIGATOR SERENADE. 91

time, and then, dashing it with a little water, took it oft
‘the fire.

“Just this, Rolly. The island is a favorite place
of theirs. That’s what makes it so smooth. They
were troubled to see the fire on it, That's all,”


CHAPTER XIII.

A NIGHT VISITOR.

HEY were now entering upon
a new phase of their wonder-
ful cruise. The mangrove
islands became a thing of the
past. In their place they
found islands and the main
shore covered with a growth

of timber, most of which appeared to be pine, though

at times they could distinguish other varieties.

The soil looked black. It was unlike the sandy
loam of higher portions of Florida, and appeared as
though it had been subject to an annual overflow
until of recent years. Perhaps the digging of the
great canal that let the waters of Okeechobee reach
the Gulf and drained the neighboring country had af-
fected even this remote region southwest of the Ever-
glades.

Game became more abundant. They hada chance
at adeer about ten o’clock in the morning. Roland
was paddling along in the lead, when, upon turning a
bend, he saw a deer standing at the edge of the
stream. Instantly he dropped his paddle and put his
hand under the deck for the Colt’s rifle. The deer


A NIGHT VISITOR. 93

seemed surprised at first, but immediately took the
alarm.

As Roland drew the gun out, the wary animal
sprang off into the bushes with flag erect. Roland
sent a bullet after him, but he did not believe he struck
home. So confident was he regarding this that he did
not even think it worth while to go ashore to find out.

Alligators were plentiful. They saw them every-
where. When a bend was turned great fellows slid
into the water from the low banks where they had
lain basking in the sun. Sometimes they floated upon
the creek like great logs.

More than once the boys prodded some sleeping
saurian that had not noted their approach. Evidently
the alligator hunter had not been in this region to any
extent.

Birds were also seen in abundance. Andy bowled
over a couple of ducks neatly, and they were found to
be of a fair quality when they came to eat them.

Raccoons are met with in great plenty all through
the woods of Florida. - The negroes delight in their
flesh, but to one born without this liking for a’coon its
meat tastes like very rich pork and is not relished.

Squirrels were seen from time to time. The fox-
squirrel seemed to be most plentiful, and at almost
any time they could get one for a stew.

The day passed pleasantly. It was delightfully
warm, and the young cruisers enjoyed every minute
of it. They kept their paddles in motion. When
evening came on they had made splendid progress.

As the chance of camping on shore was something
that did not come every day, they determined to take
94 PADDLING IN FLORIDA,

advantage of it. So a suitable camping spot was
looked out for in the latter part of the day and found.

All was soon arranged. The business was rapidly
getting down to a system now, and they were able to
do an incredible amount of work in a very little space
of time.

Around the camp-fire that night the boys sang and
laughed. All went as merry asa marriage bell. It
was pleasant to hear their hearty voices ring out with
the ‘‘ Warrior Bold,” the “Sailor Boy,’’ or that ven-
erable old shanty song, “ Rolling down to old Mohea,”’
which every canoeist has heard around the camp-fire
at the Grindstone Island meet.

It was later than usual when they retired, and,
being wearied from the ardor of their day’s work, they
slept quite heavily. Dreams of home came to them,
perhaps, as they lay there under their shelter. The
camp-fire dwindled down, as neither awoke to replenish
it, for this Florida pine burns out quickly.

Roland awoke with a start. Something cold had
come in contact with his face, and he found he had
rolled out of the tent near the fire. His first thought
was of snakes—the deadly rattlesnake or equally ven-
omous moccasin. Chilled with horror at the idea of
such things being their bedfellows, he remained quiet,
not daring to move a hand, lest by so doing he would
invite an attack.

There was a movement near by. Then he heard an
unmistakable growl. A new thought flashed through
his brain. The fire had burned very low, but it was
not out, and as he twisted his head around that way
he could see some dark body outlined there,
A NIGHT VISITOR. 95

The truth flashed upon him. It was a bear that had
invaded the camp in the dead of the night, and was
prowling around, seeing what he could devour.

Now that he knew the full nature of the situation,

Roland was himself again. His first thought was of
the repeating-rifle. Could he touch it? The gun had
been laid close by, and, reaching out his hand, Roland
groped for it. As luck would have it, he grasped the
rifle almost immediately. Then he sat up.

To pull back the hammer was the work of an in-

stant.
Roland felt his heart throbbing like the mighty pulsa-
tions of an engine, but it did not interfere with his aim
at all. He pulled the trigger. The silence of the
night was broken by the heavy report of the “ alliga-
tor-rifle,”’ as Andy generall y jokingly called the re-
peater.

“Give him another shot, Rolly !’”? said Andy, who
had been awake all the time.

“Tt isn’t needed, old fellow.”

Roland jumped up, rifle in hand, and went toward
the fire. This he stirred into a blaze and dropped some
small bits of pine wood upon it that famed up instantly.
Then he turned to see how his game had fared.

The animal lay on its side. Considering the nature
and conditions of the shot, it had been a most remark-
able one, piercing the bear’s heart. Andrew was loud
in his praises. He had been aroused also, and was try-
Ing to think which barrel of the Parker held a buck-
shot cartridge, when he heard the report of the rifle.

“Do you think this one is alone ?” asked Roland.

“That would be hard to tell, They often hunt in
96 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

couples. It might be wise for us to build up a rousing
camp-fire before we lie down again.’’

Roland liked the idea. They gathered a quantity. of
wood and soon a rousing blaze was springing up, illu-
minating the surrounding woods. It was quite a weird
sight, and Roland could hardly get to sleep again for
looking around him.

Morning came without any further alarm. The bear
proved to be small but quite fat. Andrew set to work
taking the hide off while his companion got the break-
fast ready. They had a bear-steak along with other
things, and found it quite palatable.

It was half-past nine when they started off on this
morning, for so many things had to be done that they
were delayed much longer than usual. The sun was
shining brightly, and all nature looked joyous. It
seemed a pleasure to live. They paddled on, now and
then calling out to each other, or else singing a line or
two of song. :

Tt could be plainly seen that the stream they had
been following from the Gulf was rapidly growing
smaller. Its banks had contracted until they were
often only twenty feet from each other.

This they had expected, and were not at all surprised,
for the map which Andrew carried told them of this fact.
The stream was deep, nevertheless, and they found no
trouble in navigating it. Alligators were plentiful, and
more than once they ran into the reptiles while push-
ing their way onward. No catastrophe resulted from
such encounters, however, which was a lucky thing’, as
a single sweep ofa large alligator’s tail would have de-
-‘molished one of the canoes in a hurry.
A NIGHT VISITOR. 9%

On this day Andrew killed a wild turkey, making a
splendid shot with the rifle as the bird sat on a limb
some thirty or forty yards away. It will be seen that
the boys were not faring badly upon their trip. Per-
haps the time would come when they might not be
able to secure such luxuries as bear meat or wild
turkey. There were harder times ahead of them.


CHAPTER XIV.

THE LOST CAMP-FIRE.

LAST they were ina pnsi-
tion to see something of
the interior of Florida.
Around them stretched a
wilderness. Streams
seemed to connect with the
one they were navigating
‘every few hundred yards,

j F e They found it would bea
very easy thing to getlost. Indeed, it soon became
a question as to whether they were on the stream
along which they had started, or one of its numer-
ous tributaries.

All the while they headed northeast. That was
bound to bring them to their destination, the Ever-
glades, although they might be a long time in attain-
ing such an end.

Toward evening one day they were looking for a
suitable place to tie up for the night, when Andrew
called his companion’s attention to the numerous birds
flying over and all heading in a certain direction.

‘‘There’s a roost near here, Rolly.”


THE LOST CAMP-FIRE. 99

“Then it’s a good chance for me, one I may not have
again in a hurry.”

“You want to go?”

“‘ Most certainly, if you will accompany me.’’

“ Well, we’ll see about it after supper.”

The meal finished and everything made comfortable
for the night, Andrew pulled on along pair of rubber
boots that came to his hips.

“Get ready, old man; we’ll want alantern apiece.
You carry the shotgun ; I'll havea stout stick for those
blessed water-moccasins.’?

Soon Rolly was ready. The only things they dread-
ed were the yellow moccasins which were sometimes
plentiful. They had been told that this water-snake
was about as venomous as the huge rattler, and, al-
though Andrew expressed doubt as to this, neither of
them had any desire to experiment.

Rolly had already been about as close to death as he
ever desired to be. One day, while out hunting deer,
with Andy keeping camp, he had stepped over a huge
diamond rattlesnake trailing its length along.

Roland made a spring and cleared the reptile, which
had immediately thrown itself into a coil and made a
strike at his leg.

Turning quickly, Roland blew the reptile’s head off
with one of the barrels of his shotgun, and lugged it
back to camp, desiring to preserve the skin. It was
as thick through the body as a man’s thigh, and.
marked beautifully along the back with diamonds.

This narrow escape had put him doubly on his guard,
and he did not mean to step over a rattler again if he
could help it.
100 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Leaving the camp, they made their way due west, for
Andrew had marked the spot where the birds went.
At times the walking was easy enough, being over
cypress and mangrove knees and firm soil; but now
and again they came upon patches of swampy ground
where their high rubber boots were brought into play.
It was a weird scene; the Spanish moss draped the
live oaks, and, hanging in long festoons, waved in the
breeze like banners hung upon the outer walls.
Around them were the varied noises of the night—the
hum of myriads of insects, croaking of frogs, the
splash of alligators, the hiss of water-moccasins, and
the strange cries of night-herons and other nocturnal
birds.

As long as he lived Roland would not forget that
night walk through the Florida swamp. No accident
befell them, although several times they saw the yellow
folds of some huge moccasin glide through the water.
Andrew kept splashing with the long stick he carried,
and this frightened the reptiles away. It turned-out
that his reckoning was good. He knew he was right
even before they reached the roost, for the odor was
wafted to their ears by the westerly breeze.

After an hour’s work they arrived at the roost. It
was a great spectacle to see thousands of birds, mostly
‘large ones at that, like the wood ibis and cranes,
Covering the branches of trees. In places great limbs
had been broken to the ground. A foot of guano lay
about. Snakes seemed to haunt the spot. Taken in
all, it was not a very lovely place to linger in, and the
boys hastened away, after having secured a couple of
birds.
THE LOST CAMP-FIRE. 101

Rolly tumbled over a red ibis which Andrew secured,
although an alligator made a dash out of the neigh-
boring water to lay hold of it. Next he shot a roseate
spoonbill.

They did not care to carry more than this back to
camp, for the march was anything but an easy one.
Some men would have committed slaughter under
similar circumstances, but our boys were true followers
of Audubon and no butchers.

Andrew had not expected to have any trouble
getting back to camp. He had arranged the fire so
that it would continue to burn brightly while they
were away, believing it would serve as a beacon for
them.

Although they could get the points of the compass
pretty fairly, they tramped a long time without seeing
the light of the fire, and finally Andrew came to a
halt.

“* What do you think of this, Rolly?”

“I’m afraid we are bearing too much to the left.”

** [know that is the common fault of any one who is
lost. If we had some one in camp to answer a signal
there would be little trouble.” ;

When Andy led off again he bore more toward the
right. The result justified Roland’s suspicions, for in
less than fifteen minutes they detected the light of a
fire ahead.

“There it is, Andy.”

“Sure enough. I wouldn’t have believed it pos-
sible.

“Strange things happen in these Florida wilds,
when even an old veteran like you gets turned around.”
102 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Andy looked puzzled and confused.

«« Just so, and yet if you had asked me I would have
said it must be back yonder.’’

They made for the fire. At times they had to
flounder through water above their knees. All at
once Roland caught his companion’s arm.

«* Andy, as sure as I live there’s some one in our
camp. Look, see! a man’s figure between us and the
fire. Who in the world can he be?”’

Startling as this declaration might be, it was nothing
less than truth. Andrew took a glance and then
declared:

«¢ Worse than that, Rolly.”

«* What could be worse ? ”

« That isn’t our camp at all.”

‘“* Confusion! And yet, by all the prophets, you are
right. We camped under live oaks laden with moss,
which overhung the creek. This fire is on a hamak.
Who under the sun can he be?”’

Andy looked uneasy. He knew that some of the
most desperate characters on the face of the earth
were to be found hidden away in the Everglades and
swamps of southern Florida. They could defy justice
there, for the stern arm of the law they had outraged
could not reach them while hidden in such a country.
He did not wish to alarm his companion, however.

“* T suppose this is the camp of some bird-killers or
alligator-hunters, that’s all.’”’

“‘ Shall we go forward? ”’

“Why not? We may getsome knowledge of the lay
of theland. If they can tell us where the creek is, we
will be able to find our camp.”
THE LOST CAMP-FIRE. 103

“‘ But they may be desperadoes.”’

“ What of that? As near as I can tell, they only
number two souls. We count the same. You havea
gun with two loads in it—by the way, slip in buckshot
shells. JT have a small pistol in my pocket.”

‘Then lead on. I shall be entirely governed by
your actions in the matter.’’

*T don’t think I will get you into any trouble. At
any rate, we will stick well together.”’

They again advanced. The fire grew larger. One
man was feeding the flames with bits of resinous pitch-
pine that made much smoke but also created a fierce
flame. Thus the camp was lighted up.

It was an alligator-hunters’ camp, as they saw at a
single glance. Traps of many kinds hung around, to-
gether with remnants of wretched ’gators that had
fallen victims to the cunning of the swamp hunters.
CHAPTER XV.

FOILING THE ALLIGATOR-HUNTERS.






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S Andrew had said, only two men
were in sight. They were not
very pleasant-looking custom-
ers, and both boys felt rather
sorry that they had decided to
come forward, when it was
possible to avoid such a colli-
sion altogether.

The men glared at them as
they strode forward, and one of them put out his hand
toward his gun. His face had a hunted look upon it.
Roland instantly conceived the idea that both of these
men were criminals of some sort hiding from justice.
Their first thought was one of fear lest the new-comers
might prove to be officers come in search of them.

Andrew deemed it best under the circumstances to
explain the situation as speedily as possible.

‘‘ Gentlemen, we are cruising around here in a couple
of canoes. Making a trip to a bird-roost near by, we
lost our way, and, seeing the light of your camp-fire,
thought it was our own.’’

The two men seemed relieved. They even exchanged
significant winks, as much as to say that here was a
good chance for a haul.

Andrew had placed his little revolver where his







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FOILING THE ALLIGATOR-HUNTERS. 105

hand was upon it, while Rolly kept his gun with both
hammers drawn back. These things did not escape
the eyes of the men, and there was a resolute bearing
about the two lads that rather cooled their ardor. At
any rate, they made no hostile demonstration.

“ T take it that you are acquainted with the country
around here, gentlemen.”’

“ Summat,” growled one of the alligator-hunters.

“ Then you can tell me where the spot is that stands
marked in this way: A tree has blown over the stream
and leans against one on the other bank, forming a
perfect arch, under which lies our camp.”’

The two men nodded.

‘“‘'We know the place, young feller.”’

Andrew took out a silver half-dollar and tossed it
over. .

‘‘ Perhaps you would be kind enough to give us di-
rections how to get there.”

The man smiled curiously.

“No trouble at all. Yer about a mile from it.”

“Tn which direction does it lie ?”’

“Yonder. D’ye see that cluster of stars? Right
under them ye’ll find the live-oak arch, I reckon; eh,
Dobbs? ””

Dobbs nodded. He seemed to be without a tongue,
for he had not uttered a word as yet. Rolly did not
believe the man, although he saw no reason. why he
should lie to them. As for Andrew, he appeared to
place implicit faith in the alligator-hunter’s words, and
thanked him cordially.

“Come on, comrade.”’

The two boys left the camp, keeping an eye on the
106 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

rough customers who remained behind, for they did
not seem to be above such a dastardly trick as shoot-
ing men in the back. When they had gone some little
distance Andy deliberately doused the glim—that is, he
raised his lantern and blew the light out.

“What’s that for, Andy?” asked Roland in sur-
prise. ,

“ Follow suit.”

Rolly did so, although mystified to understand what
good it would accomplish. They were now surround-
ed by the darkness, for the moon was not old enough
to give light.

To Roland’s further surprise, his companion started
on to retrace his steps, heading back in the direction
of the hunters’ camp-fire, which could be readily seen
between the trees.

“* Hold on here, comrade! Itisn’t fair starting on this
cruise without giving me the points.”

“ That’s a fact, Rolly,” and Andrew halted.

“¢ Where are we bound ?”’

“ Back to the camp of those men.”

“ You think they lied to you, then?”

* T know it.”

“‘ And you mean to force them into guiding us at
the muzzle of the gun ?”

Andy laughed at this.

‘“‘T presume you are ready to stand by me, Rolly?”

“To the death.’’

‘Well, I mean to have these fellows guide us, but it
will be without their knowledge.”

* Explain, partner.’’

‘*You see they told us the wrong direction. Our
FOILING THE ALLIGATOR-HUNTERS. 107

camp lies at an angle of forty-five degrees away from..:
the line of that cluster of stars—I am ready to swear 2
to that. "When they had made sure that we were off”
on a wild-goose chase, they intcnded slipping over to
our camp and helping themselves to whatever was
good among our traps.”

Rolly gave a low whistle.

“And you mean to follow them there ?”’

‘‘That’s the idca. We must lose no time. Come.”

When they drew near the camp they saw one of the
‘men engaged in lighting a lantern. This confirmed
the suspicions of Andrew, for he knew now that they
were bent on mischief.

Presently they saw the men scatter their fire and
leave the camp. They took a direction which Andrew
had declared he knew would lead to the spot where the
canoes and all their belongings had been left.

As silently as they possibly could the two boys fol-
lowed after. They knew what risks they ran in ford-
ing the water of the swamp, but it could not be helped.
The men ahead of them made enough noise to scare
away all moccasins from the vicinity.

The lantern was guide enough, and in a short time
Andrew pointed out a light beyond. It could be seen
between the tree-trunks, and at first glimmered like a
star of the first magnitude.

“Our camp-fire, Rolly.”

‘*Good enough! At all events, we’ll reach camp.”

“ And surprise these fellows.”

Ten minutes later the boys saw the men stirring up
the fire before they began to take an inventory of their
new possessions. Their faces glowed with satisfaction.
108 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Never before had such a windfall come to them, and to
think it had all been obtained without a fight !

“ Now for the plunder !”’

The speaker bent over to pick up the Colt’s repeat-
ing-rifle. which was not.charged, as Rolly had been en-
gaged in cleaning it at the time of starting out for the
bird-roost in the swamp.

He was examining it with a great deal of interest
and satisfaction when suddenly a voice called out:

«« Just return that gun to the place where you found
it, and oblige.”

Looking up, the alligator-hunter saw Rolly standing
within twenty feet of him and glancing along the bar-
rels of his shotgun. The man jerked the rifle to his
shoulder and pulled the trigger. An empty gun gen-
erally misses fire, and this one was no exception to the
rule.

“See here, my fine fellow, don’t try that again—it
might be dangerous. Ihave two buckshot cartridges
in this gun. IfI pull the triggers the result will prob-
ably astonish you. Now, stand still, and don’t move
somuch as a finger, if you want to keep your head on
your shoulders.”’

The man obeyed. Meanwhile Andrew had covered
the other miscreant at close quarters with his little re-
volver. His determined attitude alarmed the fellow.
He believed the young canoeist would fire upon slight
provocation. Andrew disarmed him, not leaving so
much as a knife upon his person.

“Stand there and you will not beharmed. Attempt.
to run away and a charge of buckshot will follow you.
Rolly!”
FOILING THE ALLIGATOR-HUNTERS. 109

(Ves.

“Turn your man over to me while you cover this fel-
low here. If he tries to run, let drive.”

“ All right, partner.’’

The second man swore a little to find himself disarm-
ed by a mere boy, but the weapon Andy carried was a
gentle persuader, and he submitted to the indignity.

“Now, youcan go, my men. Remember this—we are
boys who know how to manage our business. It will
be very unhealthy for you to prowl around our camp at
any time. Wemight mistake you for a wild-cat and
shoot to kill.”

The men slunk away, apparently cowed.

Whether they would attempt anything later on, only
the future could prove,


CHAPTER XVI.

A RAINY DAY IN CAMP.

=

the boys did not sleep much on
this night. The fire was allowed
NZ. to go out, and one of them stood



as the alligator-skin collectors
might be willing to run some risk for the
* +purpose and with the hope of getting even.

There was no alarm. Morning came and
found everything serene. One of the first
things they did was to take the weapons se-
cured from the men on the previous night, and sink
them out of sight in the deepest part of the creek,
where it was very unlikely they would ever be found
again. They knew full well there was less to fear
from unarmed men than those who possessed weapons,
and this was a brilliant stroke of policy on the part of
the boys.

Breakfast was soon eaten and the two canoes cleft
the waters of the creek again.

“Look! ”’ said Roland, as they rounded a bend.

The two alligator-hunters were standing on the
A RAINY DAY IN CAMP. 111

bank, They looked crestfallen enough. Rolly laid
his hand upon the Colt’s repeater, now fully charged,
but the men made a gesture to prove that they were
not up to war.

‘* Gents, we tried to play ye a mean trick last night,
and it’d sarve us jest about right if ye kept our
weapons. But I tell yeit’s hard. We’d be ina desperate
Strait without ’em. Excuse us this time, an’ we’ll give
ye a wide berth, I swar it.”

Andrew believed they meant it, no matter what the
motive that influenced their action. He realized how
tough it would be to leave them in the midst of the
Swamp without a weapon.

“ Very good. Taking you at your word, I’ll tell
you where the articles can be found. Directly beyond
the arch, and sunk in fifteen feet of water. Yow ll
have to dive for them.’

“All right. Much obliged, gents. We’ll steer
clear o’ your crowd, sure enough,’’

The men turned to follow the water-course back for
a mile or so, when they would reach the spot were the
cruisers had camped. The boys went on, well satisfied
at having gotten over the business so well. It might
have turned out ina far different manner with them.

Other troubles diverted their minds from the subject,
So that it was dismissed for the present. The channel
became <« devious,” as Roland called it—so much so
that it was hard to tell just what to do. It seemed to
branch in a dozen places. Which was the true one?

This puzzle was of great interest to them, for to take

the wrong “canal ’’ meant a tedious return after they
had discovered their error.
112 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Andy declared they had better go slow. Roland
said he would mark the points in order, and at the same
time try to keep a map of the route, so that it would
be of benefit in case they got lost. So they plodded on.

As evening approached the air became muggy and
warm, and as a consequence the sand-flies were very
troublesome. They were glad to sleep in the canoes
that night, where the cheese-cloth bars prevented all
insect pests from getting at them.

Another misfortune overtook them. Roland de-
clared his boat must be leaking, for he had discovered
water in it. Andrew suspected the truth instantly.
Picking up the water-can, he held it out to his com-
panion.

“Too bad, Rolly. It is nearly all gone.”

“‘ How.in-the world did that come?”
gork isn’t tight, and the can was upset.’
au id was much distressed, for his companion had
to divide with him now, and this reduced their stock of
fresh water almost one-half. However, there were
ways of economizing. The water of the stream was
far from being bad, and when boiled it could be used
for cooking purposes, tea and coffee. If they fared no
worse than this it would all be well.

A cruise on salt water, like the Indian and Halifax
rivers along the east coast, is another thing. There
drinking-water can only be obtained at wells, and these
are few and far between.

During the night the wind arose and howled at a
great rate, making a soughing noise through the
palmettos that resembled the continuous roar of a
train passing by, now receding and anon advancing.


A RAINY DAY IN CAMP. 113

Andrew predicted a Norther, but for once he was
wrong, for toward morning the wind died out, and a
gentle, steady rain descended, really the first of its kind
Roland had experienced in the Pelican State.

Rain they cared little for, but, being in no hurry, it
was decided to remain in camp during the day. There
are many things to keep one employed on a cruise like
this. Roland had a number of odd jobs laid by for a
rainy day, and he now set to work mending this,
making that, or improving the next thing.

Even these gave out bynoon. Lunch eaten, he tried
to read, but it was hard work. The rain still dripped,
and all nature looked soaked. Roland at Jength threw
the volume he had been attempting to master across
the tent which they had erected as being more com-
fortable than the boats, and began to rummage in the
hold of the Sea Urchin. Andrew looked up, for he had
been napping. He watched his friend for a while in
silence.

‘‘ What in the world is up, Rolly?” he finally
asked.

*“* Getting my oilskins, that’s all.”

“On a little tramp?”

Yes. I can’t keep still long.”’

“ Take the gun.”

“The Parker, yes. There are varmints here, and I
wouldn’t like to run across a panther without a
chance to defend myself.’’

When he had rigged himself out so that the rain
could not wet him, Roland started fora tramp. He
had been duly warned by his companion not to go far
and to watch for danger. The fire still smoldered, and
114 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

some firewood thrown upon it made quite a smoke,
which could be seena long distance away. This would
serve as a beacon to Roland, for the woods were open,
the swamp having been temporarily left behind.

The rain still came down, but there was a break
above, and it was easy to see that old Sol would soon
peep out.

Andy watched his companion go off and shouted out
some last words to him.

“‘T say, Rolly.”’

“Well, what is it ?”? returned the canoeist hunter,
as he carefully held baék the leaves of the scrub pal-
metto, so that it would not brush his face.

‘* Look out for rattlers |”

“Do you think there are any around here?” inquir-
ed Roland uneasily.

His experience with the varmints had not been of a
pleasant nature. Indeed, he could look back to several
events that pleased him more than jumping over a huge
diamond rattlesnake.

«Well, I’ve an idea they may be found. I saw the
tail of one an hour back—where it had shed, perhaps
weeks ago.”

“Allright. Dll keep my weather eye open.”

“« Besides I smelled one near camp.”

Andy was not joking, for the rattlesnake, especially
when excited, emits a musty odor, which once smelled
could not be forgotten.

So Rolly started on his wet stroll, keeping his eyes
on the lookout for danger.

Even in the heart of the lonely Florida swamps one
needs to keep his senses about him.














my, Ne
i

7 fing A A > on Ai] 1s
ie Sood
; ey :




“The young cruiser could not help firing both barrels.”

A RAINY DAY IN CAMP. 117

Roland hardly expected to run across any game; the
tramp was all he wanted. There are times when we
meet with that which is most unexpected.

The first thing he knew he saw a deer just vanishing
through the pine woods. As it was too far off to make
sure of his game, Roland did not fire. He did not care
to inflict unnecessary wounds upon an animal which he
could hardly hope to secure.

At any rate, the incident put him on his guard, and
he realized that all nature had not gone to sleep, even
though the rain was coming down.

Some squirrels were next sighted frolicking in the
woods under the shelter of the pines. ’Coons could also
beseen. Roland fired at none of them. He had an
idea this was a good place for turkeys, and looked to
see a gobbler strutting about.

The rain ceased. All nature brightened up as the
sun broke through the clouds and birds began to
appear.

While he stood looking at a water-slough that lay in
the grass beyond, and wondering what caused the
bubbles to rise, he heard a growl just behind him.
Turning, to his surprise and consternation, he beheld a
bear. The animal seemed vicious.

Roland remembered that he only had birdshot in
the gun.

Dropping his oilskin jacket, he sprang away just as
the old bear made for him.

Another moment and Rolly was up to his armpits
in the slough. The bear stopped on the bank, and
presented such a shot that the young cruiser could not
help firing both barrels.
118 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Bruin rolied over, growling furiously, but, being
more scared than hurt, soon ambled away, vanishing
in the palmetto scrub.

Roland reloaded with a couple of buckshot shells he
had in a high pocket beyond the reach of the water,
left the slough, and, recovering his oilskin coat, took
his way to camp, where Andy had the laugh on
him.

It was now too late in the day to think of going on,
so they made no move. The sun was so warm and
pleasant that they put their blankets and a number
of clothes, which seemed to be damp, out to dry.
Again the sand-fly put in his appearance, and the boys
had to make a smudge in order to find any relief while
cooking supper. :

“Tt’s a question with me, Andy, whether the
pleasures of Florida pay up for the discomforts,” said.
Rolly, as he rubbed his barning cheeks vigorously.

«You don’t mean that, my boy.”’

“Yes, Ido. Just fancy the pests one has to endure
here !”

*« Pshaw ! I’ve been almost eaten alive by mosquitoes
away up in Canada.”’

“Ts it possible?” ~

“T see you are one of those skeptics who believe
such things are natives of warm countries. Bless your
dear heart ! they flourish bestin cold countries. Why,
up in Maine the vicious little black fly drives men out
of the woods sometimes in the months of June and
July.”’ :

“‘T have heard that said.”

‘‘ And I have experienced it more than once. If
ARAINY DAY IN CAMP. 119

there were no such pests abroad this country down
here would be Paradise.”’

«¢ Perhaps so.”

“ Just fancy, at this time, the middle of January,
we are paddling around here just as one might in
June up in Maine, while our friends up in Pennsylvania
are digging paths through several feet of snow, and
no doubt frozen up completely.”

Roland sat there for a minute lost in thought. He
could picture it all very easily, and somehow quite a
genuine shiver passed through his frame.

“T take it all back, Andy.”

“ Spoken like a man! This is a great country of
ours. Fancy the extreme north of Maine and Key
West, what opposites—one differing probably one
hundred degrees in temperature from the other at the
same time.”’

“To change the subject, do you think there are any
fish in this water ?’’

“‘T was curious myself upon that subject, and while
you were away I tried various lines, but only suc-
ceeded in landing a black bass of about nine pounds
in weight.”

What !”’

‘“Tt’s a fact. I’ve seen them along the east coast as
high as eleven pounds, but I can’t say I admire
the large-mouth bass of Florida as a game fish.”

“cc Why so.”?

“This one came in like alog. His mouth scared
me, it was so big, and I saw how rightly he was
named. Besides, you can poke your finger into their
sides, they are so flabby—nothing like the firm flesh
120 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

of the bass who gives a terrific fight in our cold lakes
and rivers up North.”

“< But there are plenty of them.”

“Not so many as people believe. The great freeze
must have created terrible havoc among them. But
the sand-fly pests are getting to work again, so J
think we had better retire to the boats.”’

«JT echo that remark.”’

Presently the camp was given up to slumber



aa
CHAPTER XVII

SWAMP LIFE IN SOUTHERN FLORIDA.

m@, HE Everglades expedi-
~ tion had now reached a
position where it would be
about as hard to retreat as
advance. They could not
with certainty follow up the
back trail, so many transfers
had been made. It was
easier to go on.

In one place they were
compelled to make quite a
portage that took half a day and considerable hard
work. This event came about in a rather peculiar
way. The day after the rain-storm they had to use
their judgment in choosing between two forks. With-
out any apparent motive, Andy thought one was the
right course, while Rolly pinned his faith on the other.

One must be wrong, but which? Neither felt con-
fident enough to insist that he was right. As a com-
promise they pitched a penny up.

rate Heads,” said Rolly, while it still revolved in the
air.

“Heads wins. We go your way, Rolly.”

But now that he had won, Roland grew dubious.

“ Perhaps your way is best, after all, Andy.”



gt
122 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

“None of that. Fate has decided for us. It may
be good, it may be bad, but it takes the choosing out
of our hands. We take the right-hand course.”’

They paddled along it just three hours, and then
came to a full stop. The reason was obvious. They
could go nofurther. Just at the point they ceased
paddling, the creek, if such the stream could be called
came to a sudden end.

Here was a nice kettle of fish. To return meant a
delay of many hours. Besides, it went against
their grain to give up this way. As it was near
evening, they concluded to pitch the tent and spend
the night here. Perhaps, during the camp-fire con-
ference, some plan would be developed that might
appear feasible.

Roland went out to look for game. He had not
been gone fifteen minutes before he made his appear-
ance incamp again. His face showed that he was some-
what excited, and Andy became anxious to know the
reason. Thoughts of the hostile alligator-hunters
crossed his mind.

““What’s wrong, Rolly ?”

‘‘Nothing. D’ve made a discovery, though.”

“ Well, out with it.”

“We are close toa grand stream—not more than
twenty-five yards away—behind that hamak yonder,
in fact.”

‘“ You mean another still-water creek like this.”

“No, it is wide and has a current.”

“What! are you sure?”

“‘T tossed a bit of wood upon the water and saw it
float away, there being no wind.”
SWAMP LIFE IN SOUTHERN FLORIDA. 123

“Ah! this requires attention. I will go with you
and take an observation.”’

In another minute both boys stood upon the bank
of the stream. Andrew was delighted.

“ This is just the stream we have been looking for.
How to get over to it is the question.”

“Then you don’t think it is the other fork which
we did not take ? ”’

‘‘T am sure itis not. This stream is much wider.
Besides, there was no current about that ; I made sure
upon the subject before proposing to toss up a penny.”

“Well, how about a portage?”

Andrew reflected.

“Tt can be done. We will go at it in the morning. |
The canoes must be entirely emptied, so as to put as
little strain as possible on the hulls. Piecemeal
we will carry each cargo across this strip of land,
and long before noon will see us once more afloat.”

So it was decided. Roland again started on his
hunt. He followed the new-found stream, as by keep-
ing it in sight he could always find his way back to
camp.

Birds were plenty, but not the kind he was after.
Failing to find a turkey, and discovering a small flock
of mallard ducks upon the stream, he quietly changed
the buckshot shells in his gun for number threes,
and then began to creep through the timber that
grew along the shore. j

He got a chance to send one barrel among them as
they arose. Three fell, and Roland forbore shooting
the second barrel, as a trio of ducks were all they could
manage,
124 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Andrew skinned the ducks, as the easiest way of
accomplishing a given result. They were prime when
cooked according to Andy’s method, which he had
carried out many a day.

A hole was dug in the ground and a fire made in it.
This was kept up until the earth was very hot. The
ducks, wrapped in leaves, were placed in this and the
hole covered up. Then a fire was made above them
for a time. Andrew judged when they were done,
and he hit it well, too.

Before retiring to rest the cargo of each boat was
taken out and made up into packages. Thus consid-
erable was accomplished that would save time in the
rush of the morning. Tired at length, the boys re-
tired. Roland went to sleep inside of three minutes.
The next thing he knew was when some one plucked
him by the arm, and he heard Andy’s voice close to
his ear.

* Rolly, are you awake?”

«Yes ; what’s up?”

. “Something prowling about among our tins. I
can’t make out what itis. Hark!”

Surely enough, there was a rattling of the pans, as
if some hungry animal were investigating.

“You’ve got the Parker beside you, Rolly ?”

“Yes,”

“ Hand it to me.”’

Roland did so noiselessly.

“« What’s in it?’

“ Right barrel sixes, and left buck.’’

“Very good. Now I’ll reconnoiter.’’

He crawled stealthily out of the tent. The fire was
SWAMP LIFE IN SOUTHERN FLORIDA. 125

burning, though dimly. Outside a limited circle no-
thing could be seen. Andy’s attention was at once
taken up with the clatter among the tins, which now
became more lively as the animal got on the scent
of something it longed for. He could dimly make
out a crouching form. ‘To fire a charge of shot
would be to riddle their paps, and as there was no
itinerant peddler handy such a catastrophe would
have been lamentable indeed. Some stratagem was
necessary in order to get the animal away from the
tinware. Andrew knew how to accomplish it. He
called out aloud:

‘“ Ah! there!”

There was a sudden movement, and an agile animal
leaped out from among the pans. Here was the chance
for which he longed. The gun sounded. At such close
quarters a miss was next to impossible, and, as Roland
expected, the dark animal began to kick and claw
dirt. Andrew stood ready to give him another dose
in case there was any necessity for it, but the one load
seemed enough. When all was quiet they went out
to survey the victim. It needed only one glance to
. disclose the true nature of the brute.

“ A wild-cat,’’? said Roland.

‘“Yes, and a monster, too. Look at his head.
What ferocious claws! I must secure that skin and
have it mounted, that is, unless it has been mutilat-
ed.”

“Do so, and every time I look at the beast I will
see in my mind a fellow of your size and caliber
creeping out of this tent and looking for game. It
is a spectacle that will haunt me always.”
126 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Andrew made sure of his game by hanging the dead
cat up by the legs in the crotch of a tree, and believed
there was a pretty good chance of finding it when
needed. Then they retired to rest.

Morning found them up and at work. While one
got breakfast in readiness, the other began carrying
the smaller packages across to the stream.

Later on the boats were taken over, a short dis-
tance at a time, and successfully launched. Then they
were loaded, and by nine o’clock all was in readi-
ness for further work.

The stream was a decided improvement upon that
along which they had been traveling, and they were
able to make very satisfactory progress by the aid of
their reliable paddles.

Roland named it Alligator Creek, for the saurians
were unusually plentiful upon it. Sometimes they
swam in the water, and again could be noticed has-
tening down the banks to plunge in the stream. More
than once Roland punched a great fellow who seemed
to be sleeping on the bank, and as the reptile at-
tempted to scurry off he settled him with a scientific
shot direct in the eye.

They made good time this day. Andrew was not
wholly satisfied with the direction in which the stream
carried them. He would have preferred a more north-
east course, but it was generally fair, and the won-
derful Everglades could not now be far distant.

They came to early that day, having discovered a
perfect little bijou of acamp. The creek or estuary
formed a small lake, which was bordered on one side
by a swamp, and on the other by quite a pine wood.
SWAMP LIFE IN SOUTHERN FLORIDA. 127

As the breeze blew from forest to swamp, the former
would be a good place to camp.

Hardly had they started to arrange the camp than
Roland noticed some bees working on wild flowers
near by. He caught one and marked it with a tiny
bit of white thread. Then it was put on a dish of
syrup and allowed to secure its fill.

When it flew off Roland followed, to repeat the
operation at the point where the marked bee was last
seen. He was away half an hour, and came back
with a radiant face.

‘Get some tin pans ready, gloves, an ax and some
pleces of mosquito-netting. We'll have some honey in
camp presently.”

«Then you found the tree?”

‘< Yes, and it’s close at hand. Come.”

Andrew had a sweet tooth. The invitation could
not be resisted. So, with a glance around to prove that
the camp was in order, he picked up some pans,
kettles, an ax, and then followed his friend, who,
seizing the mosquito-netting and gloves, had started
eagerly off.

There was some fun in prospect, and honey too. An
hour of daylight remained. Much could be accom-
plished in that space of time.
CHAPTER XVIII.
SHOOTING A HONEY THIEF.

HE tree was speedily reached,
and then operations began.
Both boys seemed to know just
about what ought to be done, so
that no time was wasted in use-
less debate. Swinging the ax
with hearty enthusiasm, Andy
soon made quite a decided im- |
& pression upon the sturdy tree.
~ When he became in a measure
winded, his companion took the
; place of honor, and so the good
work went on. .

In twenty minutes the tree tottered. Andrew had
the ax, and dropped it immediately in order to don
his veil and gloves.

Roland, being already equipped, seized the ax and
gave a few resounding blows.

‘Look out! she comes! ”’

Down crashed thetree. In falling, being hollow, it
split open, revealing a rich treasure in the shape of a
great accumulation of honey. Much of this had been
stored so long in the bee-tree that it was old. The
boys knew where the best of it lay, and they set to work.


SHOOTING A HONEY THIEF. 129

In a short time the tins they had carried with them
were filled. The bees appeared to be startled and
stunned by the catastrophe that had befallen their
home. At any rate, they made no effort to defend
their stores against the ruthless invaders.

‘‘Enough’s as good as a feast, Rolly. Back to
camp it is,”’ said Andy finally.

Presently they were at the canoes. Veils and gloves
were doffed, and the regular routine work of preparing
supper progressed. The honey was of a superior qual-
ity, and the boys felt themselves amply repaid for the
work they had done in chopping down the bee-tree.

Of course the talk on this night was almost wholly
devoted to bee-hunting. Andy had seen a good deal of it
among Northern woods, and he had many singular
stories to tell of the honey-gatherers. Sometimes
bears were met with, for Bruin has a wonderful sweet
tooth, and will go to an immense amount of trouble in
order to get at the interior of a hive. Andy told of
an adventure he had once had with a honey-stealing
pear. He had come very near losing his life under the
circumstances, and even when relating the adventure
shrugged his shoulders as he told how Bruin hugged
him and buried his teeth in his shoulder. Andrew car-
ried the marks of those teeth to this day. But for the
timely arrival of a friend he would probably never
have come out of that little affair alive.

Under such circumstances it was natural, perhaps,
that Roland’s thoughts should be filled with bear
hunts. He dreamed of them. Some time after mid-
night he suddenly awoke, having been engaged in his
dreams in a terrible hand-to-hand conflict with a great
130 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

bear. Laughing at his alarm, he sat up and rubbed
his eyes. Really it was a great relief to find that it
was only a dream. What was that noise? He lis-
tened, and soon located it. The sound came directly
from the quarter where the bee-tree lay.

Some animal was grunting and growling as though
engaged in cleaning out the honey from the split trunk
of the fallen tree.

Roland’s mind being filled with bear, his first thought
was that a wandering Bruin had been attracted to the
vicinity by the odor of the spilled honey. ,

He picked up the Colt’s repeater, which he knew to
be loaded, and crept out of his bed. Andrew was tired
and appeared to be sleeping heavily. Slowly and cau-
tiously Rolly made his way in the direction of the bee-
tree. There was no cessation of the sounds which he
had heard upon awakening. Evidently the bear was
bent upon gorging himself, now that such a splendid.
opportunity had come.

The new moon had sunk to rest before now, so that
only the starlight remained. This was not very good
when it came to aiming a gun, but Roland knew he
could fire almost from intuition, and had no fears as
to the result. As he drew near the spot where the
“tree lay he strained his eyes to catch the first glimpse

of the animal. It was not hard to discover him there
and at work. 2

Roland crept closer. Could he fire so as to make
sure work of it? There was a chance of failure, and
under such circumstances it might be very unpleasant
for him. He could not forget the story Andy had just
been relating, with all its unpleasant details. At the
SHOOTING A HONEY THIEF. 131

same time these thoughts did not deter him in
the least. He raised the rifle and brought it to bear
on the dark, shaggy mass so busily engaged near
by.

Fresh bear-meat was not to be despised, and this was
the only thing that influenced Rolly to carry out his
plan. He pulled the trigger, and instantly the loud
report rang through the lonely Florida woods. Roland,
with a hasty movement, sent the empty shell flying
through space, and brought a new one into the cham-
ber. Then he looked to see what was taking place, for
his shot had necessarily been in much the order of a
chance one, as he could not aim directly.

A confusion of sounds met his ear, in which a horrid
roaring seemed to predominate. At the same time he
realized that the black object was advancing upon him
slowly, as though dragging a broken leg behind.

Roland knew he had no time to lose, for a hand-to-
hand tussle with a wounded bear was something to be
avoided. He again leveled his gun and sent a second
bullet on its mission. Even this retarded the forward
progress of the bear but a few seconds, and again he
advanced with ferocious growls.

Roland had nothing to fear. There were many
more bullets where these had come from, and he was
sure Bruin must succumb ere long, so without hesita-
tion he gave the clumsy fellow another shot.

This apparently settled his hash, for with a grunt
he lay down. When silence had at length come
upon the battlefield Roland for the first time noticed
that his companion was calling.

“ Give it to him, Rolly! Another shot now, old man,
139 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Let him have a volley ata time. Besureyou lay him
out, the old honey fiend !”

Andy was close athand. He carried the other gun
in his hands, and was evidently in a state to make
good use of it,

‘Get a light from the fire, Andy. I believe the bear
is dead, but I’d better stand guard over him until we
make sure.”’

Presently the flambeau was brought to bear upon
the scene, and then it was discovered that Roland’s
last shot, more through pure good luck than anything
else, had entered the eye of the honey-robber, bring-
ing immediate death. Buckets of water had to be
dashed over his hide before the honey with which he
was coated could be removed. Then the animal was
left where it lay until morning.

Roland declared he did not care to keep the hide.
It was far from a beauty, being gray and unkempt,
as though it were the midst of shedding time. The
other hide had been glossy black. Enough meat was
removed todo them some time. The boys were just
now in clover. At one time they had bear’s meat
and venison, a turkey, some Florida quail, and two
kinds of fish in camp. This would not last long.
Inside of a few weeks they would experience just the
opposite state of affairs, when a scarcity would rule
the roost.

It was about nine o’clock before they got under way.
The weather had turned out threatening again.
Andy declared he did not know of a winter season
down in the south of Florida when they had so much
rain. Half of the time it seemed to be threatening or
SHOOTING A HONEY THIEF. 133

else raining. Perhaps this was just as well, for it on-
abled them to catch a certain amount of rain-water,
whereas, had the season been ordinarily dry, they
could not have done this.

The stream remained of respectable size for a long
time. Andy tested it when the wind was not blowing
even a breath, and declared the chip of wood he cast.
upon it moved off.

“‘ There is a respectable current moving away from
the interior,’’ he announced.

«¢ What do you make of that?”

“Well, it has been rather wet, and I am of the
opinion that we will find more water in the Everglades
than is usual at this time of year. Hence the flow is
towards the coast.’’

“Then you believe we will strike our destination by
following this lead ? ”

‘ taken a fish out of the water.”

“ Neatly done, I declare!”

“Look above. See that shadow.”

“ An eagle, I declare !’’

‘“‘ Yes, our national bird. They call him the king of
the air, but he is a vile robber. Watch him steal the
fish from the hawk—he’s too lazy to plunge into the
stream and get one for himself.”

“Nature didn’t intend he should. It gave him the
instinct to chase the industrics fish-hawk and make
that poor bird share.”

“There they go.”

The hawk, seeing its dreaded enemy and oppressor,
attempted by rapid flight to get clear, but the eagle,
134 | PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

with a scream, descended upon its prey. When the
matter had become settled beyona question, the hawk
let the fish drop. By a tremendous sweep of his strong
wings the eagle descended. The boys lost sight of
him for a second or two. Then there was a hissing
noise, and, looking around, they saw the eagle sailing
off twenty feet above the water, with the fish held fast.

“See, Rolly, yonder is his nest in that great pine
overhanging the water.”

“‘Sure enough.”

“T’d like to lookinto it. A young eagle would be a
prize indeed for me. I have always wanted one, but
their nests in the mountains were generally inaccessible.’

“‘Then try this fellow.”

“T’ve a good notion to. Let’s paddle over there and
camp. It’s almost time, anyhow.”

‘« Feels like rain in the air.’

“‘T don’t know,”’ with a shiver.

“You’re cold, Andy.”

“* T believe a Norther is due.”

Roland laughed, for this periodical Norther business
had become quite comical to him, although there was
nothing funny in the affair itself. They landed at a
convenient point. Roland looked after the camp, and
Andy surveyed the tree in which the eagle had its
nest. So busily engaged was Roland in arranging the
many little things about camp that he had really no
time to think of aught else. He was aroused from
this state by a shout from his companion.

‘«« Ah! there, you old scamp! keep off, Tsay! I only
want one of your squabs. Hold on there or I’ll do
murder most foul !”
CHAPTER XIX.

THE EVERGLADES AT LAST.

ANS 7

US ran looked quickly up.

zs What he saw would have been

really amusing had not there
been a spice of peril about it.
Even then Roland had to laugh
to see the figure his companion
presented.
It seems that Andrew had climbed inta
the tree after experiencing some difficulty.
It was the largest tree for miles around,
and hawks and eagles generally select such
a place for their nests. The only way in
which Andy could gain a footing in the tree was by
means of a large vine that mounted to the branches. _
Up this he climbed with sturdy energy, and finally -
ensconced himself among the foliage.

When he had recovered his breath he kept on mount-
ing higher. It was not very long ere he had gained a
position where he was able to look down into the nest.

Two young eagilets lay there, being of good size and
almost ready to fly. Andy’s eyes fairly snapped at
the sight, for he had waited long to gaze upon such a
spectacle.


136 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

He had even decided which of the two he preferred
to have, when there was a sudden whirr of wings, and
the large eagle they had seen deposit the fish in the
nest dashed by within five feet of his head, uttering an |
angry cry as though defying him to proceed.

Then began a series of tactics which Hardee might
sum up as prize evolutions. The great bird again and
again flew at the would-be robber. Andy dodged
each time behind the tree-trunk, and aimed a blow at
the eagle with a stout cudgel with which he had taken
the precaution to arm himself ere climbing up the
tree, no doubt suspecting that something of this sort
would occur.

There was danger in the air. If ever the eagle
managed to strike him with his powerful wings, he —
would be hurled from the tree-top instantly, to be
crushed into a mass below. Then again he might
accidentally lose his hold when changing his position
so hurriedly.

Twice he had struck his feathered foe, but the blows
did not appear to make any decided impression upon -
the eagle’s vitality. Infact, with each passing minute
it seemed to grow more and more excited.

Roland was suddenly made aware of the great peril
his comrade was in. Much as he hated to kill -the
bird, there seemed no other way in which Andy
could be saved. True, the other might have gradually
descended the tree, and thus got beyond the reach of
his feathered antagonist; but Roland knew the
stubborn disposition of his friend well, and was aware
that it would take considerable more than danger to
make him give up a cherished object. He had gone
THE EVERGLADES AT LAST. 137

up that great tree with the intention of securing an
eaglet, and this he was determined to possess.

So Roland picked up the reliable Colt’s, and waited
for a chance to dispose of the bird so gallantly battling
in defense of its young. He felt a certain amount of
shame in killing her, but a human life was in peril, and
that-was to be considered first.

Andrew had not appealed to him for assistance. He
was too proud. The battle would have been fought out
by him on these lines if it took allsummer. When Rolly
saw a chance to fire without running any chance of
hitting his comrade, he pulled the trigger. The shot
told, and the valiant eagle came fluttering to earth
with a broken wing.

Roland could not approach the bird, so savage was
its aspect. His first thought was to kill it with
another shot, but, seeing that a broken wing was the
full amount of its injury, he wondered if it could not
possibly get well.

Andy soon joined him. He had selected one of the
eaglets and secured it, though not without something
of an encounter, from which he emerged with several
severe pecks upon the hands that brought the blood. He
was satisfied to let the old bird live, and so Roland put
aside the rifle. The camp was now arranged for the
night. It was the last time they had an opportunity
of sleeping ashore for some little while.

Andy secured his young royal captive so that no-
thing could happen to it. Now he had the bird he
realized that it was bound to prove an elephant on his
hands. There would be times when he really could
not tell what to do with it.
138 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

A can of roast turkey was opened on this evening,
followed by one of plum pudding. Itwas Andy’s birth-
day, although the fact had well-nigh escaped his mem-
ory, as there was nothing around him to remind him
of it. It is all very well to feast, but ‘‘ those who dance
must pay the piper.’? The boys rolled and tossed the
livelong night. Both complained of feeling sick, and
had recourse to the little medicine chest each carried.
Whether it was the richness of the food eaten for sup-
per or a touch of lead poisoning, they felt as if drawn
through a knot-hole, as Andy expressed it, the next
morning.

The start was late—indeed, it lacked only an hour
or so of noon when the canoes left the scene of the last
camp. Wherethe wounded eagle had gone to they did
not know, but it had wholly vanished. The wound
might soon knit, and the bird be able to again soar
aloft, though never with the same swiftness as before.

They soon noticed a change taking place in their
route. It began to abound in swamps.

‘“‘No camp on shore for us to-night, Rolly!’ said
Andy, as he saw this.

He had tied the young eagle near the bow of the Ma-
bel, having made a perch for it there. Roland smiled
every time he looked at the bird. It was just like
Andrew. He had a whole menagerie of stuffed and
living animals and birds at home, all evidences of his
own prowess, for he was a young naturalist.

As the hours drew on Andy’s words became realized,
for when the time came to think of halting they were
surrounded by water. Here and there they could see
what appeared to be green islands ; most of these con-
THE EVERGLADES AT LAST. 139

sisted of tall grass, and upon investigation proved to be
mock isJands, as there was no earth above the water.
Looking down they could see that this green grass
grew everywhere, though only in special places did it
‘crop out above the surface ard form one of these isl-
ands. Birds could be seen in great numbers. Where
they came from and where they went to our boys could
not make out at first, until they noticed them heading
_for the swamps which bordered this strange inland sea
of water and green grass, and then they realized there
was a ‘roost’? among the trees over in that
quarter. :

Resting on their paddles, the two canoe cruisers sur-
veyed the strange scene in silence for a full minute.
It was Roland who spoke first.

«The Everglades !’’ he said slowly.

“Undoubtedly we are gazing upon that strange in-
land sea of waving grass and water which was a subject
ofso much discussion yearsago. Why, men questioned
the existence of this singular thing, together with Lake
Okeechobee.”’

“* And to think two boys from Pennsylvania are now
navigating the mysterious waters !”

The sun was setting. Crimson clouds moved slowly
overhead. The air was full of bird life, and altogether
it was a scene neither of the canoeists would forget
while they lived.

“There are no fish here, Andy?’ said Rolly at
length.

‘«They say the grass keeps them from entering the
Everglades. I do not know how that is, as the big-
mouth bass loves weeds and grass, as does our North-

age


140 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

ern pickerel, but it is true that you will seldom see a
fish here.’’

«¢ Where shall we anchor ?”

Andrew cast hiseyesaround. Accustomed to seeing
things at a glance that it might take others minutes to
discover, if they ever found them out, he speedily de-
cided this question.

‘Yonder is our best anchorage, near the trees you
see. The wind blows into the swamp, and that alone _
is a good thing. Besides, I’ve an idea there’s a nest-—
ing-place there, and you spoke of a burning desire to
see a Florida bird-hatchery.”’

Roland laughed.

“What you say is very true, but our last experience
has knocked some of that conceit out of my head.”

“Bother! we won’t get lost this time, and there’s
no chance of our meeting any one here. If there is a
nesting-place yonder, you shall see it in the morning.
Out with your paddle, Sea Urchin, and we’ll soon tie
up for supper,”
CHAPTER XX.

FIRE IN THE SKY.

Y the time the flush of sunset
had faded from the western
sky, and the hordes of mos-
auitoes let loose upon them, the
cruisers had reached the selected
ground and cast anchor. rope was carried to the nearest
tree so as to steady each canoe, the con-
stant swinging motion back and forth, such
as is experienced by a boat at anchor in tide-
less water, being very disagreeable to them,
hence the boats were generally held fast
stern and stern. The usual routine was gone through
with, and after each had made uphis log they smoked
a last pipe before turning: in.

Somehow Roland could not sleep, even though his
previous night’s experience warranted the belief that
he was sorely in need of Nature’s restorer. He toss-
ed and turned. Finally, when more than an hour had
passed, he growled something to himself and sat up.
The moon was shining. He could see out on both sides
of his boat, for the flaps of the tent had been turned
aside in order that the cool night air could pass through,



142 : PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

although the interior tent of cheese-cloth prevented in-
sects from entering.

Roland was enchanted with the view. The water
was stirred by the gentle breeze, and the tiny wave-
lets looked as thongh individually touched with sil-
ver, so brightly they gleamed in the moonlight. The
waving grass and shimmering water made a picture he
would not soon forget. He turned to the other side.
Here was a contrast indeed. The swamp seemed dis-
mal enough to give any one the horrors, and yet the bor-
der of it, where the swaying Spanish moss was touched
by the moonlight, was romantic indeed.

All was not silence here. The splash of the great
Florida alligator could be heard as he prowled about
the nesting-places of the birds. Now and then there
came what seemed to be a shriek of anguish, as some
unlucky bird, falling into the water, was engulfed in
the reptile’s capacious maw. Through the livelong
night these sounds were apt to continue; besides,
there were others that helped to kill the silence. As
Roland looked and listened darkness began to creep
over the face of the scene. What! the moon going
down already ? Why, he had no idea it was so late.
This would never do. Unless he put in some good
hours of sleep now, he would be in no condition to do
his work on the morrow. Stillhelingered. Darkness
came—the moon had sunk out of sight. Roland heaved
asigh and turned for one last look at the water glades
on his left, to see what a change had taken place.

As he did so he uttered an exclamation of surprise,
for the sky in the southeast had an angry, ruddy
glow where a bank of clouds hung low. What did it
FIRE IN THE SKY. 143

mean? Roland had heard of the terrible hurricanes
that sweep through the West Indies and strike along
the Florida coast. Could this awful glare in the
heavens have anything to do with such a dire event?

Perhaps the pine forests were on fire, and the con-
flagration might sweep onward until it reached them !
Under ordinary circumstances he would have laughed
at this idea, but just then, being in rather a nervous
state from lack of sleep, he was ready to see a moun-
tain where stood a mole-hill. If there was any danger
Andrew should know of it in time. It will thus be ob-
served that Rolly was exceedingly cautious, and of all
things disliked being caught in a trap.

‘‘Halloo! there, Skipper Andy !”

There was a commotion in the bowels of the canoe
Mabel, and immediately the head of the young com-
mander appeared, bedecked in a tuque of blue, made
by some fair Canadian hands, and which served him
well in warding off colds while he slept.

“Ah! Rolly, what’s up? Another Norther com-
ing down on us?”

“Not this time. Instead of cold I’m afraid we are
in for heat.’’

‘“What’s the row ?”

““Turn your eyes yonder. I believe the forest must
be on fire.”’

Andrew looked and then laughed.

““T see; and as the wind drives from that quarter
you feared that in an hour or so we might awaken to
find a tornado of flame licking up the woods around |
us.””

“I don’t know, I merely desired some information
144 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

upon the subject, and as you were well versed I roused
you out.”

‘‘ Nothing like being on the safe side, eh, Rolly ?’’

«There is no danger, then?”’

“Not a particle.”

«* Are the pine woods on fire ?”’

«© No.”

«Then tell me what that means? Ihave seen the
heavens lighted like that when some farmer’s barn and
haystacks were ablaze.”

“It comes from the Indian hunting-fires. The few
Seminoles living in and about the Everglades hunt
deer in a strange way, building long rows of fire and.
driving the game into a small circuit, where the ani-
mals are easily killed. I’ve known them to slaughter
hundreds of deer this way on the Atlantic coast, just
for the hides, which they sell for whisky.’’

“‘Then my mind is relieved. I was really apprehen-
sive, but I guess I can go to sleep now.”? With which
remark Roland turned in. He knew nothing more
until early dawn, when he was aroused by the violent
rocking of the little boat.

“« What’s up now?” he thought, as he thrust his
head out, and it took him just five seconds to grasp
the whole situation.

Andy was already on deck and engaged in the en-
deavor to get his tent down—a difficult job with the
canoe rocking violently.

«Come, Rolly, we must get out of this. The posi-
tion is too exposed. Our Norther has come, and I tell
you she’s a tearer.”’

No use in telling Roland that, He saw the gray
FIRE IN THE SKY. 145

sky, heard the roar of the wind through the trees, and
could catch the foam-capped wavos that rolled across
the watery savanna. He, too, started to take in sail,
for the tents served as such, the wind striking them
with full force and causing the boats to tug at their
anchors like restive steed hearing the din of battle
afar. This task was finally accomplished and all
made snug. Then the anchors were drawn on deck,
and everything done that was necessary ere casting off
from the trees.

** Yo heave, oh!’ sang out Roland.

The lines were cast away. Immediately both canoes
fell off before the wind, but a few vigorous strokes
from the paddles caused them to obey the will of their
skippers. Andrew had his eyes about him, and he
had already decided where to go. They must get to
the leeward of some shelter, for the wind was whist-
ling fiercely, and promised to grow even worse as the
day opened more.

Skirting the edge of the woods and swamp, they
finally came to where both ended. By turning this
corner they were able to get the shelter afforded
by the trees. Of course they were to leeward of the
swamp, but this would not affect them in such cool
weather.

“Ah! I call this a decided improvement,’ declared
Roland when they had made fast to the -branch of
a tree.

‘“‘ No time to lose. Rain is coming, and it will be a
deluge. Up tents again!”

So it goes with a cruiser. There is much work to
be done, but withal much amusement to be picked up
146 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

along the way. The tents were hardly in place ere
the rain fell in solid sheets. They would have been
drowned out but for the little canvas houses, under
which they sat dry enough and proceeded to cook
breakfast,


CHAPTER XXI.

A BIRD-HATCHERY.

HE rain continued to pour down
for perhaps half an hour. It
grew colder too, and then the
rain ceased. When a Norther
is in full blast the wind becomes
dry, and generally the sky
clears, though the atmosphere

remains chilly. They are the most unpleas-

ant and peculiar institutions of Florida, and
one who has experienced their rigor wiil
never cease to remember how much they fill

‘ the mind of the Floridian.

This north wind was not to their liking, for, besides
being cool, it decidedly prevented their progress. All
they could do was to make themselves as comfortable
as possible, and wait until the Norther had blown it-
self out. It would not last long, Andrew declared,
being so violent.

Within the tents all was cozy enough. The little
flamme force lamp stoves, burning alcohol, gave just
enough heat to dispel the chilly, raw sensation in the
atmosphere, and when the odor of cooking was added
to this it made the hungry cruisers realize that they


148 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

were remarkably well off to be in such snug quarters
with plenty to eat.

The day wore slowly on. A number of little things
were done that had accumulated from time to time,
and which had been marked down for attention on a
rainy day. When the boys could make progress they
hated to waste valuable time, and hence these little
affairs were entered on a list for future use.

“The wind is dying down,’’ declared Roland.

It was three in the afternoon when he said this, and the
canoeists, having finished their list of ‘things to do on
arainy day,’ were taking it easy, one reading Cooper’s
“ Leatherstocking,’’ the other engaged in a reverie.

“JT have noticed that same thing for some time.
Butit’s too late to think of proceeding to-day. We will
lie over where we are. By the way, Rolly, now’s your
chance to see the nesting-place of this aviary of birds.”’

Roland tossed ‘‘ Leatherstocking ”’ to the other end
of his canoe. He was all attention at once.

“ Do you mean it, Andy?”

“JT do, indeed. All the trouble it will necessitate
will be the up and down of tents.”

«That’s nothing. I must see this curiosity of
southern Florida.”’

‘
“ That doesn’t matter. Come, let’s make a move.”’

They had now became quite proficient in the task of
lowering and raising the tents, the operation being
done very speedily. Both of them had discovered little
ways of shortening the operation which saved time.
When the tents were stowed away, paddles came into
requisition. The canoes entered among the trees. This
A BIRD HATCHERY. 149

was rendered possible, for the trees grew apart in places,
though generally their roots formed great arches over
which one might walk without getting in the water.

It was a gruesome spot. The further one entered
among the trees the more dismal it seemed to become.
There was the moss streaming from the live oaks in
great funereal streamers, the dark water, the creeping
things that glided into the flood at their approach, and,
added to all, the strange sounds.

Roland could not but shudder as he took all these
things in. They were still strange indeed to his eyes
and ears. Progress was made continually, although
in a roundabout way, for they had to follow the pas-
sage whichever way it led. Now and then one of them
would make a savage clip at some vicious yellow moc-
casin which had thrown itself into a striking attitude
upon the surface of the water and seemed to dare
their advance. The snake generally came out of the
encounter second best, for the sharp edge of the paddle
nearly cut it in two.

Alligators were very numerous. Indeed, Roland
had never before seen so many, large and small, in a
swamp. Upon asking his companion about this he
learned that it is always the case where there is a
nesting-place of birds, as the ’gators secure many a
tidbit from the fact that lots of half-fledged birds fall
from the nests and are gobbled up mstanter. Feather-
hunters have been obliged to kill off the alligators on
more than one occasion before they could secure their
birds, for as fast as one was shot it would hardly reach
the water before there would be a rush in a dozen
directions and the jaws of a saurian close over the gay-
plumaged specimen.
150 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

More than once the boys were compelled to prod a
sleeping ’gator with the paddle in order to clear the
passage. The astonishment of the disturbed reptile
was really absurd, and Roland laughed heartily time
and again.

Finally they reached the nesting ground. It was
indeed a spectacle such as Roland had never seen in
his life, nor did he care to look on its like again.
Hundreds, yes, thousands of birds had nests in the
swamp. Many of these were built in among the
branches and crotches of the trees, and, as they served
one bird after another, they were always occupied
either with eggs or young. Other birds had nests
among the roots of the trees, and it was wonderful to
see how cunningly arranged these were to be safe from
_ the alligators. Some warfare was going on continually
between the birds and their enemies. They scolded
and fought like Amazons. The odor of the place was
simply terrific, and even curious Roland soon had
enough of it. Snakes and alligators were to be seen
everywhere. Coons also abounded, and perhaps preyed
upon the half-fledged population. Andrew pointed to
a tree near at land.

“
Sure enough, a tremendous wild-cat was to be seen
crouched upon a limb and busily engaged in feasting
upon a young bird. He had been disturbed in his
meal by the appearance of our friends on the scene,
and now glared at them as if half-contemplating
an attack.

“Steady now!’’ said Roland, as he kept his eyes on
the cat, and let his hand fall on the rifle.
A BIRD-HATCHERY. 151

The animal moved uneasily, as though some
intuition warned it of danger.

“Careful, boy! Send it home or there may be hot
work here,” whispered Andy, as he cast a glance to-
ward the shotgun.

It lay within reach, and yet he made no movement
to take hold of it, which proved his confidence in Ro-
land. The latter was by this time glancing along the
sights of his rifle, and quite sure of his game.

Sure enough, as the gun sounded the animal came
down with a wild screech. Catching hold of a limb, it
held on with a convulsive clutch until death at last
released it.

The boys arrived in time to save the dead wild-cat
from the maw of an alligator, but in order to do so
_ Roland had to fire at two of the hungry reptiles
that were plunging through the water at race-horse
speed.

‘“‘ Have you had enough of this place, Rolly ?”

“ Very near, I’m looking for a scarlet ibis.”

** You won’t find one.’

“Why? There are lots of other species here.”

“Yes, but the skin-hunter has been along and
cleaned them out hang’em, I say!” growled Andy.

Bird hunters have almost depopulated portions of
the Florida peninsula, so far as beautiful-plumaged
birds are concerned. Thousands have been slaughtered
in season and out, their nests robbed, and such de-
struction caused that the species must become extinct
soon. And yet the legislature of Florida remains in-
active. For fear of offending visiting sportsmen, they
pass no laws to protect birds andgame. So the merry
152 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

war of extermination goes on, and each year the beau-
tiful birds grow more and more scarce.

The boys soon turned the prows of their canoes away
from the nesting-place, and it was with a feeling: of
intense relief that they breathed the fresh air of
heaven again. Roland saw other bird-roosts while
wandering about in the swamps, but it was never with
the same eagerness he had shown at first. The novelty
had worn off,

It was now near evening. Roland missed the fine
oysters of the Gulf coast.

“‘T tell you what it is, Andy, we’re in for this cruise
through the Everglades and up Okeechobee, but, once
down the Hatchee River and on salt water, you won’t
catch me leaving the coast for the interior again,’’

“Wise head that of yours, Roland.”

“Don’t you agree with me?”

“IT must say Ido, toa dot. This interior work is
too hard. It is weeks, almost, since we had a chance
to sail properly. Every day paddle, paddle until the
back and arms ache. Then those exhilarating outside
runs, how fine they were, and the fishing, too! This
tame life may suit some, but I prefer more excite-
ment.’’

‘‘And the delicious oysters—how my mouth waters
in remembrance of them! Besides, it can’t be as
healthy here as in the salt air.”’

“We'll go through with it, now that we have started,
but if I ever meet a man who says he wants to cruise
through the interior of southern Florida, Dll say,
‘Don’t.’ ”

Of course the boys had many minor troubles of
A BIRD-HATCHERY. 153

which no mention has been made. They preserved
their good nature through all, and laughed when some
accident occurred, or insect life grew too familiar to
be pleasant. Now that the Everglades had been
reached, they knew where their course lay. It was
not plain sailing, for time and again they had to go
out of their line in order to round some obstacle in
the shape of a waving island of grass.

Here and there they did see a genuine island with
trees on it, but this was the exception rather than the
rule. Roland kept on the lookout for Indians, as he
particularly desired to see some of the descendants of
Osceola and his tribe. The manner of his finally
striking the noble redmen was singular, to say the
least, and in the proper time and place it will be given.

During this day they had to do considerable work
manipulating the sails, for the wind was generally a
head one. When the noon hour came they did not
pause, for the breeze gave signs of dying out, and Andy
desired to improve the shining hour as far as he could.

At one oclock there was hardly a ripple on the
water. The heat was intense for a day in the latter
part of January. Andrew had worked in the direction
of an island where the trees promised some shade, but
the last part of the trip was made with a spruce breeze.

It had been quite a relief to throw the sails to the
breeze after the long spell of paddling, so that they
were averse to picking up the blades again. They
rested under the shade of the trees until three o’clock.
Then a breeze sprang up.

“* Hurrah!’ cried Roland, “now for a dash. It’s
from the east. A race, Andy!’’
CHAPTER XXII.

ALONE IN THE WILDS OF FLORIDA.

HE race was a lively one
for a time, as the wind rode
strong. Both little craft
stood up wellagainstit. The
waves were not high, but
choppy, and the canoes sped
over them like frightened sear
gulls,

Andy’s boat seemed to
drag a little. Something
was the matter with the centerboard, as it could not
be closed. Possibly a mass of water-grass or weeds of
some sort had become fastened to it.

Andy could not stop to clear it just then, and hence
kept falling behind. Roland went on until toward
evening. Then, having lost sight of Andy among the
numerous islands, he pulled into a cove to wait for his
comrade.

The tent was up, and still Andy did not put in an
appearance. Roland began to be uneasy. He pushed
out to the open water to see if the Mabdel was in sight,
but without success. Where could Andrew be?

Perhaps something had happened to him, or else he
had taken another course through mistake, or hoping
to shorten time so as to head the other off.

Roland fired his gun and shouted. Once he believed


ALONE IN THE WILDS OF FLORIDA. 155

he heard answering shouts, but this must have been a
delusion, for he could not hear them repeated. Dis-
couraged by his want of success, he returned to the
cove. What could be done to attract the attention of
Andrew to the spot in case he had stopped to make
some repairs ?

There was something of a shore here, and he hunted
up some wood. Then he made a fire, and soon a signal .
blaze was shooting up at least ten feet high.

Rolly went back to his boat and repaired his condi-
tion, for his hunger was something tremendous by
this time. Every little while he glanced out of the
miniature bay upon the bosom of the inland lake, ex-
pecting to see the white sail of the Mabel shoving into
view; but supper was cooked and eaten without such
a happy affair taking place, and poor Roland felt an
awful despondency creep over him.

What could have happened to his friend? All sorts
of terrible suspicions entered his mind. He even re-
membered the two desperadoes whom they had humili-
ated quite a long time back. Could it be possible
these men had followed them, and from ambush mur-
dered Andrew? °

The mere thought was enough to upset Roland. He
was no coward. With the thrill of horror that swept
over him at the thought came astern resolution that
if such a thing turned out to be the case he would
sure avenge his comrade.

Presently he laughed at such a conceit. Of course
Andy had simply missed his way, and was liable to
come along at any minute. Possibly something had
happened to the Mabel, and she was delayed. This
156 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

theory was all very well, but why did not his friend
answer his gun signal? Here was something Roland
could not get through his head. It was now about nine
o’clock. Picking up the rifle, he fired several shots
into the air. With strained ears he listened for a
reply. There was none.

Roland passed a miserable night. He tried to sleep,
but only succeeded in spells. Every little while he was
overboard, and wading through the shallow water to
the shore in order to replenish the fire.

Through the livelong night that, signal fire burned,
a monument to unselfish friendship. Morning came
at last, and it promised to be a grand day. A gen-
tle breeze ruffled the surface of the water, growing
stronger as the sun rose. If Andrew were only here!
Roland missed him terribly. 1t was as though a por-
tion of his life were blotted out. Left alone in this
lonely Florida wilderness, he yearned for the society
of his friend.

What could be done? Very little indeed. Roland
arranged the fire so that it would burn for some hours,
and at the same time continue to throw up a volume of
black smoke asa signal. He might even get bewil-
dered himself in this maze, and have difficulty in find-
ing his way back.

- Then he began to paddle over the course, as near as
he could recollect it. Here and there he remembered
something that gave him a clue and made him satisfied.

Finally he reached the place where he had last seen
Andy. Then something of the truth broke upon him.
At this point there. was a choice of passages, what
seemed to be an island separating them. Andy —
ALONE IN THE WILDS OF FLORIDA. 157

had taken the other one. Whether this had been
done under the belief that Roland had gone that
way, or with the desire to gain upon his companion by
taking what gave promise of proving a shorter
passage, could not be told.

Roland left a mark upon the point of division which
he could recognize again, and then began to sail
down the second reach.

Every bend he turned he swept the water eagerly to
see the little Mabel tacking against the breeze. Fail-
ingin this, he would scan the near and far shores, if
there were any beyond the deceptive grass that waved
in tbe wind. But no camp-fire was to be seen. Andy
had disappeared as utterly as if the ground or water
had swallowed him up.

When he had gone as far as he dared, Roland re-
luctantly gave it up. He knew he had an all-day job
in returving to his camp.

The hreeze shifted slightly and came froma quarter
that male his task easier. There were times when he
even marle good time with a close-hauled sail. Never-
theless it: was fully three o’clock when he reached the
point of division, and again sailed down the second
reach. His fire was not yet out. He could see a thin
column of smoke climbing up against the blue heavens.

Somehow this revived a last lingering hope in his
breast. What if Andrew had managed to work
around? Roland felt as though he would be willing to
give all he possessed to see the drawn up Mabel there
and his friend sitting before the fire cooking a meal.

The scene was void of human occupancy, and a great
wave of desolation swept over Roland as he realized
158 , PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

that the last hope was gone. Andrew must have met
some mysterious fate. Perhaps a monstrous alligator
had smashed the little canoe into kindling-wood, and
















eee, ;

—— =
Teegey at
VERE WPA YANS IN
XE BN ei Ww

“Sits unfortun-
Wee ate young
skipper had
been sent fly-
ing senseless
into the water to meet
a terrible fate.

The sole survivor of





on ——S==
4) BRUSSEL E RICHARD SONSE OE
oe
————————

= the expediti i s
The Florida “palace,” sketched from BE on it de
nature. volved upon Roland to

at least get out of the Everglades and bear the ter-
rible news to the home away .up in Pennsylvania where
loving hearts would mourn for the lost cruiser.
ALONE IN THE WILDS OF FLORIDA. 159

To turn back was worse than to keep ahead, so that
he had no choice except to adhere to the original
programme.

Once Lake Okeechobee was reached, he expected no
further trouble, as all that would be necessary then
was to skirt along the western shore of this lonely and
desolate body of water until the canal was reached cut
by the company who reclaimed millions of acres of
good sugar-cane land, and down which he could sail
into the Caloosahatchee River, and thence to the Gulf.

All the pleasure of the cruise was gone. Roland
could not enjoy the things that had before given him
the keenest delight. His thoughts must ever return
to his lost friend. Would Andrew’s fate ever be made
known, or would it remain as deep and impenetrable a
mystery as some of the swamps through which the
canoes had pushed their way? Sadly he prepared to
rebuild the fire and pass another night upon the scene
of his previous lone camp,
CHAPTER XXIII.

THE SEMINOLE CAMP-FIRES.




NOTHER long night for Roland
followed. Several times he awoke,
fancying some evil was hanging
over him. Once he dreamed
a moccasin was in the boat with
od : him and awoke in a cold sweat,
, to find it was not true.

If ever a mortal was glad to see the
morning sun, the lone canoeist certainly
was. He lefta note fastened toa stick which
was thrust in the ground. Should Andrew
return by any chance he would learn where his
comrade had gone. It would not do for Roland
to loiter longer. His stock of provisions was
warranted to hold out a certain time, and should they
run low it would be a serious piece of business. So he
set sail, and began to move toward the northeast
with a fair wind. It wasnot long, however, before he
was compelled to take to the paddle, for the breeze be-
came puffy and died out.

The morning passed away without incident worthy
of mention. All the while Roland kept his eyes on the
lookout. Some faint hope still remained within his
bosom that he might yet come across his companion.

What hurt him the most of all was the idea that
“HE SEMINOLE CAMP-FIRES. 161

perhaps Andy was suffering. He might be lying
somewhere injured, and needing the assistance of his
friend, who knew not where to look for him.

At noon Rolaud lunched off cold victuals, not having
the heart to prepare a meal. He continued his lonely
cruise through the Everglades, hoping that it would
not be so very long before he would strike the great
lake, when he could hope to soon see human faces again.

It was the middle of the afternoon when suddenly he
received a shock. A moving object on the water
caught his eye. It was off to the right and plainly
taking a course that would bring up along his intend-
ed line of advance.

There could be no mistake about its being a canoe,
for he could see the occupant wielding the paddle, the
sunlight flashing from the blade every time it was
raised.

How Roland’s heart jumped! Then came the reaction.
It could not be Andrew, for even at such a distance
Roland saw that the boat did not possess the trim cut
of the jaunty Mabel.

The truth flashed upon his mind. It was a Seminole
Indian in his dug-out canoe. Yes, he was able now to
discern the gaudy turban upon his head—Andrew had
said they always wore this peculiar head-dress.

What should he do—advance or retreat? The latter
was silly—Roland was not the one to fly from one
man. He had his rifle ready for use, and besides he
had been assured that these descendants of Osceola’s
tribe were very peaceful. They feared the whites, and
even submitted to'abuse at times rather than provoke
a quarrel.
162 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

- So he kept on. The two boats drew nearer. Neither
of the occupants ceased paddling. At length, when
there seemed to be almostdanger of a collision, they
both raised their paddles. Roland made a salutation
with his hand, which the Indian gravely returned.

*“*How do?” said the canoeist.

“ How d’ye?’”’ returned the Indian.

Roland was agreeably surprised to hear him talk
broken English. He believed he would like to accom-
pany the copper-colored brother to his camp, and see
how these strange people lived.

So, in the best manner possible, he gave the Seminole
to understand that he would like to see his people. An
idea had sprung into existence which he was now bent
upon carrying to a head.

Perhaps these people could help him find Andrew,
if he could but communicate his desires to them in an
intelligent manner. They knew every nook of this
vast region of grass and water, and if Andrew was to
be found, living or dead, it could be done by them.

The Indian announced himself as willing to show
him to their village or camp. He said his name was
Tommy, and that he was a person of some consequence,
which Roland could readily believe.

With that he began to paddle again, never looking
over his shoulder to see how Roland got on, or even
whether he followed. He kept straight along, just as
he had been moving when Roland intercepted him.
The boy realized that he had a task to keep up with
the sturdy Indian, born and bred in the midst of the
Grassy Sea, and accustomed toa boat ever since the
time he was knee-high to a grasshopper.
THE SEMINOLE CAMP-FIREs. 163

After over two hours’ steady work they rounded a
corner of an island, and the home of the Seminoles lay
before them. Several fires cast a ruddy glow upon the
water, and he could see the squaws at work preparing
supper. Half adozen pappooses were gamboling about,
and their shouts had warned him of the proximity of
the camp some ‘time before he saw it. He could also
see several braves.

There was nothing at all ferocious about these dusky
children of the Everglades. Some of the men even had
an air of dignity that added several inches to their
naturally short stature.

Roland drew his canoe up on the shore. He had
already arranged his possessions so that none of the
youngsters would be apt to see anything that excited
cupidity, for he did not believe there was any danger
from the braves.

He smiled when the thought crossed his mind as to
the singular position in which he now found himself.
What would his good people at home think to see him
alone in a camp of heathen ?

Perhaps they would murder him for the sake of his
outfit. If such a thing occurred his fate would always
be shrouded in mystery. Their friends must simply
believe they had perished in the mysterious Everglades,
victims to that daring which penetrates the arid des-
erts of Africa and the frozen Polar seas alike.

As he stepped ashore he carried the rifle along with
him. The boys ceased their playing and gathered
around to watch him. Their interest seemed centered
upon the boat, which was a marvel to them. Tommy
came up and offered to assist his young white friend,
164 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

but Roland gave him to understand he desired to take
nothing more out at present.

“ Let me meet the chief,’’ he said.

““Ugh! Yes. Tiger Tail mebbe sleep. Too much
holawaugus wyhome [bad whisky].”’

Roland understood from this that the chief was af-
flicted like a good many white people, and indulged in
an occasional spree. If the liquor went to his head,
he declared it was bad wyhome and put a curse
upon it.

They had to cross the camp in order to gain the tent
of the old chief. Roland cast his eyes about him. He
meant to take in everything while he was about it.

The squaws were raking some fish and sweet pota-
toes out from the red ashes. These would probably
constitute the evening meal. Already the children
were gathering around, eyeing these homely edibles
hungrily.

A squaw took a heavy knife and pounded upon a
baked garfish, whereupon the outer skin fell off like a
husk, leaving the white meat exposed. At this there
was a rush. How the children managed to push down
so much fish, without getting a bone in their throats
was a wonder, but they had probably been brought up
to it and were supplied with cast-iron gullets.

The scene was picturesque indeed. Roland never
forgot it. He had a small camera in his canoe, and, if
everything was favorable, it was his intention in the
morning to take a view which would bring it all before
him whenever he desired to see the past.

This was no time to think of such trivial things,
_ however. He must first of all discover just how the
THE SEMINOLE CAMP-FIRES. 165

old chief was disposed toward him, and then get him
interested in the story of the strange disappearance.

So he turned his head away from the fires, with
their bright groups, and looked out upon the water
again. A breeze had started up, and merry wavelets
were dancing along in the last lingering light of the
western sky. Something in the second little cove, now
opened up to him, caught his eye. He stopped as
though shot through the heart.

Before him he saw a canoe almost the image of his
own. Ithad been drawn up on the sandy shore and
carefully arranged, tent and all.

Roland rubbed his eyes. Was he dreaming? He
looked again, holding his very breath in suspense.
Heaven be praised, there was no mistake. Before him
he saw the canoe, Mabel. But Andrew, brave hearted
Andrew, where was he?
CHAPTER XXIV.

ANDREW’S STORY.










iT
KM
iM
ui
p
oy



aa

(Y
Di




9 GAIN all sorts of terrible
thoughts flashed through Ro-

land’s mind. He suspected

that perhaps his companion

had met with ill-treatment

at the hands of these dusky
people of the swamps. Up to
this time they had appeared
a good-natured set to him, but
on the moment’s suspicion they had a sinister look that
might stand for anything.

Without hardly knowing what he was doing, he turn-
ed to the man next to him, and who happened to be the
same party with whom he had entered the place.

*“See here, Tommy, what have you done with the
owner of that craft ?”’

His manner was threatening, and the gun he held in
his hand backed him up. The Seminole looked confused.

‘He no hurt. Weno hurt him. You no shoot us,
yet awhile.”

**Halloo, Sea Urchin! What’sall this racket about,
anyhow ?” said a familiar voice.

Andy !

Yes, there he was, walking toward them, a smile
upon hisface. Roland sprang forward, and in another
moment was shaking the hand of his friend vigorously.

This was good fortune indeed! Roland was almost










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3
ANDREW'S STORY. 167

beside himself with joy. Just at the moment when
things had looked blackest the clouds cleared away.

«Where have you been, and how did you get here?
Tell me all about it, Andy.”’

* It’s quite a story, Rolly, and will keep a little while.
Come in and see the head man of this little commu-
nity. I believehe’s a lineal descendant of old Mican-
opy, the chief in the time of Osceola the brave.”

They entered the lodge, and Roland made the ac-
quaintance of the chief. He was a sedate-looking old
fellow, who appeared to be equal to the task of ruling
the fifty-odd souls under his jurisdiction.

Roland was not to be abashed by any barbaric splen-
dor, nor was there a great amount of it to be found in
the rude lodges of the Seminoles. They live in a very
commonplace way, by hunting and fishing, besides
raising vegetables in their gardens. Roland could
hardly believe these were the same warlike people who
had fought so like tigers in defense of their native homes.

After a little pow-wow the boys left the lodge and
wandered off together. Roland was naturally very
curious to hear the story of his companion. He drew
Andy down to the Mabel, and, seated on her gunwale,
begged to hear the recital. It turned out very simple
indeed. Roland laughed after he heard it, and yet no
one could have guessed the truth.

To go back to the time when Andy so mysteriously
disappeared. It was well on toward evening, as will
be remembered. Andy was paying little attention
to what was passing around him, when suddenly some
object struck the Mabel a violent blow, so that he came
near losing his seat.
168 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

His first thought was that some vicious old bull alliga-
tor had sprung a trap upon him, and had attempted to
demolish the frail bark with a flap of his tail.

As he clung to the dandy mast and turned his head
he saw that he had made quite a mistake.
canoe had run into him, coming up so silently that he
had not dreamed of its presence until it struck.

Seated in this canoe were two men, copper-colored

. and scantily dressed. Itdid not need the presence of

the peculiar turban upon their heads to tell Andy that
they were Seminole Indians, for this was not his first
meeting with members of the tribe.

One of the natives of the Everglades held a paddle
in his hand, while the other carried a gun. To the
surprise of Andrew this latter weapon was bearing
upon his own person and the determined look of the
dark face that pressed against the stock told that it
would not take much urging to cause that dusky fin-
ger to press the trigger.

In pigeon English the fellow who held the paddle
informed the young explorer that he must consider
himself a prisoner, and that any mad attempt at escape
would be on peril of his life.

This was a new phase in the character of these chil-
drenoftheswamps. Andrew believed it must be amis-
take, but that was not the time nor place for expla-
nations, and the men were evidently in no temper for
delay.

He was wise beyond his years, and saw that, unless
he cared to lay down his young life then and there,
these parties must be placated without delay.

So he asked what they would have him do. One of
ANDREW'S STORY. 169

them bound his hands. Then he was bundled into the
dug-out without much ceremony. The Mabel, with
her sails stowed away, was towed behind. Each of the
redmen took up a paddle, and presently they were in
intricate channels, the presence of which Andrew had
never conceived possible.

He believed they had not seen Roland, and this
thought gave him some satisfaction. Several hours
passed. The Seminoles seemed to be so well acquaint-
ed with the watery waste that they could makeas good
progress in the night as during the day-time. The
village was finally reached, and Andrew found himself
a prisoner. He knew not the charge against him, and
yet it was plain to be seen that the place was in an
unusual uproar.

On the following day he was allowed an audience
with the chief. There for the first time he understood
the charges against him. _ It seemed that some trouble
had arisen between the cowboys of the Gulf coast and
the little band of Seminoles. In an encounter that had
taken place the Indians had rather gotten the better
of their opponents. The result was such that it alarm-
ed them. They feared lest their enemies should come
upon them in force and sweep them out of existence.
So the camp was in a state of constant suspense: and
fear.

Seldom was a white man seen in this wilderness, and
then it would be some rough alligator-hunter or a
butcher of the plumage birds. When, therefore, the two
Indians saw Andrew in his jaunty canoe, they were im-
mediately possessed with the idea that this must be a
spy sent on by the cowboys in advance.
170 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Andrew laid himself out to convince the chief that he
nad no connection with those he feared, but he had
a hard task before him to accomplish this result.
Finally, however, the doughty warrior declared he
would send out some of his young men to search for
the alleged companion, and if Roland could be found it
would be taken for granted that the boy they had in
their midst had spoken with a straight tongue.

Of course Roland was not found at the place they
looked for him, but evidence of his having been there
could be seex. Tommy knew all about it when he met
Rolly later on, but, with the usual cunning of the sav-
age, he disguised his real feelings.

It was allright now, anyway. A messenger who had
been sent to the cowboys with presents had just re-
turned bearing a message to the effect that all was for-
given. So the village took on the aspect of a genuine
jollification. It was a narrow escape. The braves
shivered to think how badly scared they had been.

Our friends were free to go when and where they
wished. Tommy even offered his services as a guide
to take them through the watery labyrinth of narrow
mud channels to where the nearest glimpse of solitary
Okeechobee could be had, and, realizing how much
trouble such guidance might save them, they did not
refuse.

Roland learned all he could of this strange people
during his short stay. They interested him greatly
Both of them were anxious to get on, however, for
considerable time had been lost by this peculiar mis-
understanding.

The Seminoles were anxious to do all they could in
ANDREW’S STORY. 171

return for the trouble they had caused. Hence our
young friends left the camp with the best of wishes.
They had secured one good thing—a new supply of
water, for the Indians had built rude cisterns to catch
the rainfall, knowing well by experience the value of
fresh water during the long drought that sometimes
comes to southern Florida.














































































































































































































































































































































































































CHAPTER XXV.
THE SEMINOLE GUIDE.

NE bright morning they de-
parted amid the shouts of all
the dusky inhabitants, some-
thing quite unusual for these
undemonstrative people, ac-
customed to controlling their

=~ emotions.

Tommy Tiger sat in his
dug-out, his face set with a
benign smile. “Rolana wondered how that boat could
ever be propelled, by sail or paddle, fast enough to keep
ahead. He discovered very soon that these people,
born and bred on the water almost, are not to be out-
done by two young Bucktails with even the best of
Rushton canoes.

Tommy led them with a confidence begotten through
long familiarity with the scenes they were passing
among. He made no mistakes, and yet the way was
tortuous.

The day had opened auspiciously, and yet before
they had been many hours on the way the wind became
a head one, making progress slow, for in these wide
but shallow waters quite a sea is kicked up by even a
small breeze,



al PA
= Slant nt i
THE SEMINOLE GUIDE. 1738

There was no need of their keeping on against such
obstacles, so Andrew finally suggested that they camp
until the weather grew more propitious.

To this proposition all readily agreed, as it was wet
work driving against wind and sea, to say the least.
So they headed for a patch of woods. They were now
near the border of the Everglades, and in places ground
could be found with the accompanying timber.

This was one of those spots, and Roland immediately
conceived the thought that he might find game here.
He never lostan opportunity for gunning when it came
within his reach.

While Andrew was making things snug he picked
up the rifle. Little Tommy caught sight of the action
and his eyes glistened.

‘““You go along, Tommy ?” Roland asked.

It was ridiculous to see the haste with which the son
of old Tiger Tail sprang to his feet. He had been eye-
ing the wonderful repeating-rifle which Roland held,
for some time. Its peculiar qualities had been ex-
plained to him, and he was exceedingly anxious to see
how the performance went off.

Roland knew squirrels could be had, and ’coons also,
but he was after larger game. A nice haunch of fresh
venison would taste fine and just about fill the bill. If
that could not be obtained, perhaps a plump turkey
might fall to their share, and such a delicacy was not
to be despised under any circumstances.

With the Seminole at his side he wandered on. There
was no fear of getting lost so long as Tommy was with
him, for a Seminole knows a thing or two, and could
find his way back to camp from any quarter,
174 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

In places the ground was swampy, and Roland be-
lieved he had never seen the alligators so large and
fierce. Once or twice they showed signs of attacking
the pilgrims, and Roland came near using his rifle on
them.

Tommy was walking along a slippery log when he
lost his balance and fell into a slough. Instantly there
was a commotion. The water was dashed into foam as
a tremendous alligator plunged toward the Seminole,
evidently with the intention of making a meal of him.
Roland coolly leveled his Colt’s repeater, and when the
raging saurian was within five feet of his copper-col-
ored friend he let fly. The commotion in the water be-
came even more furious than before, but its tenor was
entirely changed. Blood flecked the white foam, for
Rolly’s bullet had evidently pierced the brain of the
aquatic monster.

Tommy Tiger appeared enraged at the idea of an
alligator daring to attack a Seminole. He drew his
short-bladed knife, and with a leap placed himself
astride the huge saurian just back of the shoulders.
Again and again he drove the blade into the vulnerable
place back of the short fore-leg, until the reptile ceased
its tremendous struggles, and floated there, defunct.
Not till then would the enraged Seminole cease using
his stout blade.

When he drew himself ashore his first act was to
seize Roland’s hand and shake it, for he realized that
he possibly owed him his life, though Roland would
never own this, declaring that the man who could
handle a knife with the readiness little Tommy had
shown could not be harmed by such a clumsy reptile.
























RATLAND TO THE RESCUE OF THE SEMINOLE
THE SEMINOLE GUIDE. 175

When Tommy had scraped some of the clinging mud
from his bronzed and shapely legs, they were ready to
goon. Thus far no sign of the game for which they
sought had been seen, but Roland was too experienced
a hunter to despair so early.

He was in the advance and moving along with cau-
tion when he made a sudden jump. Another step
would have placed his foot upon the huge folds of a
diamond rattlesnake that was crawling across his path.

The terrible but splendid reptile lazily drew himself
into a coil and raised his flat head, while he gave an
ominous rattle. Roland had received quite a shock,
and this made him angry. Besides, he had a desire
to secure that velvety skin for a pair of slippers. So,
drawing a bead, he was about to fire when the hand
of Tommy restrained him.

“See how me kill him quick, Rolly.”

Nothing loth to learn something, Roland lowered
his rifle. The Seminole had his knife in his hand.
This he gave a sudden cast. It went flying through
space, and with such excellent judgment that the
snake was instantly decapitated.

“Remarkably well done,”’ said the young cruiser,
enthusiastically.

He saw that Tommy Tiger was well able to take care
of himself. Self-reliance was certainly a leading char-
acteristic of the young Seminole. Inan emergency he
was not likely to be worsted for the lack of wit.

The game for which they were looking turned up
at last. Tommy sighted adeer at some distance, and
they set to work endeavoring 10 creep up on the
animal.
176 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Still-hunting was one of Roland’s especial delights,
and he proved himself capable of creeping up on the
game without giving notice of his presence. As a
result, he soon found himself within gunshot, and when
there was no longer a necessity for further advance,
he pointed his gun
toward the uncon-
scious animal.

When the weap-
on spoke it meant
business every
time. The deer
tried to run, but
fell within twenty
feet, dead. Tommy
again proved his
ability to use his
knife, for he
speedily took the
deer’s hide off, and
had the edible por-
tions cut so that
they could be read-
ily carried.

Having accom-
plished the task
which they had set
ot forget, out to perform,

they now turned
their faces toward camp. Roland could not have told
for the life of him in which direction their camp was
located, but he believed he could put implicit reliance





The scrape Rolly
THE SEMINOLE GUIDE. 177

upon the Seminole, and, as it turned out, this proved
the truth.

Without any apparent difficulty, and showing no
hesitation, Tommy Tiger led the way to the spot
where Andy had been left. They found that worthy
awaiting their coming. He had a good fire ready,
and in avery brief time portions of the venison had
begun to send out a very appetizing odor which af-
fected the boys seriously. There was enough for all
and to spare, so that no one arose hungry from beside
the camp-fire.

By the time the meal was concluded night had
come on. The fire blazed brightly, dispelling the
darkness. Around its genial blaze the three sat talk-
ing. Naturally taciturn, as most of his race are, the
Seminole seemed to thaw out, for he conversed not
only rationally but with considerable interest.

There were many strange things that he could tell con-
cerning life in the Everglades, and Roland was deeply
interested in all he had to say.

In return the boys told Tommy much connected
with life in New York and the great cities of the
North. To the untutored savage these things were
amazing. Perhaps deep down in his soul he possessed
a secret longing to seesome of these wonders, but, if
so, he did not express the desire. ; -

The night was cool and the fire proved no unpleas-
ant factor in their enjoyment. Still the insect world
was astir, and from the pine woods around them came
the constant sound of their ceaseless hum. Perhaps
the tobacco-smoke kept them at bay, for they did not
bother the boys on this night, at least.
178 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Around them could be heard other sounds with
which they had by this time become quite familiar
This was the alligator chorus. At times one could
imagine himself close to a herd of cattle, and that the
old bulls were uneasy over something.

‘Hear that, Rolly?” said Andy during a period
when silence had fallen upon them.

“ A wild-cat?”’

** Rather a large one. Say a panther and you might
hit the mark.”’

Roland glanced toward the tree where his faithful
Colt leaned, just within arm’s reach, in case of neces-
sity.

“Don’t be alarmed. There’s no danger of his at-
tacking us here. You know the fire will keep him
away.”’

“IT wasn’t thinking of that, Andy.”

«What then ?”’

“Twas wondering if Tommy here would help me
get that fellow,” quietly returned the young canoeist.

Andy shrugged his shoulders.

“Don’t be foolish, Rolly.”

“T mean it.’’

“ But we meet with enough dangers without volun-
tarily seeking them. Remember the old hog that
treed you so nicely that time.’

“Nevertheless, if Tommy dares to go along with
me and carry the torch, I mean to try and bag that
howling dervish,” returned Roland, turning red as he
remembered the scrape with the old wild sow and her
young ones.

Tommy had by this time grasped the reins of the
THE SEMINOLE GUIDE. 179

situation and understood what was wanted. He ex-
pressed himself as eager to have a hand in the fun.
Being a born hunter himself by nature, he could un-
derstand and appreciate the feeling that prompted
Roland.

The latter meant all that he said. He selected a
couple of torches from the fire-wood gathered for the
night. These he tossed over to the young Seminole,
and then picked up his rifle. This he examined
carefully. It was really a dangerous mission upon
which he was starting, and under such circumstances
it paid to make sure everything was in order. A miss
on the partof the gun might mean a great deal to
them, for a wounded panther is an ugly customer at
all times. ,
CHAPTER XXVI.
A FIRE HUNT IN THE PINE WOODS.

OMMY TIGER was by this
time ready to accompany the
intended panther-hunter on
his fire hunt. He had ignit-
ed one of the pine knots. It
blazed beautifully, and gave
promise of fulfilling all re-
quirements.

So they set out. Andy did
not look very well satisfied. |

He was of a more conservative nature, and did not seek

danger for the sake of excitement; but he knew that

Roland could not be turned back from a set purpose

by a frown.

“Luck go with you. Make sure of the first shot,
for you needn’t count on a second. If you can’t be
certain, don’t fire.’’

Roland called back some laughing response and
went on. The light of the flambeau drove away the
darkness for quite a little space around them. Roland
kept glancing about in the hope of seeing the object
of his hunt. Several times he heard a movement
close by, and whirled to face that quarter, but on each
occasion it proved to be a false alarm caused by some
prowling coon.


A FIRE HUNT IN THE PINE WOODS. 181

So they went on, Tommy just behind his companion,
so that the light of the torch would not dazzle
Roland’s eyes when the time came to shoot..

Once they stopped short, for the wailing cry of the
roving panther came to their ears froma quarter to
the left. Upon hearing this they changed their line of
march, and headed in that direction. Eagerly they
scanned their surroundings, hoping at any moment to
see the object of their desires.

“White boy turn toright. See eyes,” said Tommy
very quietly.

Roland did so. A pair of yellow orbs shone in the
midst of the darkness. It was the wild animal for
which they had been seeking. Attracted by the light,
he was watching them from a little distance. Perhaps
he might have attacked them but for the torch, as a
panther when hungry is very daring.

Roland knew the time for action had come and
slowly raised his rifle. It was not a very easy task to
sight in such a light, but he managed to glance along
the barrel and get the two eyes in focus.

He pulled the trigger. The report rang through
the Florida pine woods like small thunder, silencing
every other sound, so that for a moment an almost

ominous silence ensued around them. Not so with the
immediate actors in the scene.

The panther gave a wild scream that told Roland in
the flash of an electric spark that he had wounded, not
slain, the brute. He comprehended the intense danger
of the situation, and with wonderful speed threw
the old shell out and put a new one into the
chamber,
182 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Quick as was this action, it was carried out none too
soon, for the wounded panther had vacated his elevat-
ed quarters on the limb of a tree, and was making a
flying leap in the direction of the two hunters.

Roland let fly again. It required all the nerve and
skill of an old hunter to strike a leaping panther
when the light was so poor. Roland had a pretty
strong idea that he had not wasted his bullet, but at
any rate it madeno perceptible gain. The maddened
animal struck the muzzle of the gun that was still aim-
ing toward him.

Such was the force of the concussion that Roland
fell in a heap, together with his rifle. The panther also
rolled over, but immediately scrambled to his feet and
turned with a ferocious growl to complete his work.

Roland, having been flattened out, could not recover
himself so readily. He was therefore in a poor con-
dition to meet thé attack of the wounded creature.
Fortunately he had a friend near. Tommy had his
senses about him. He was given no time to use a fire-
arm, so quickly had one event followed another, but
for all that he was able to come to the rescue.

Quick as a thought he thrust the firebrand in front
of the panther. The blaze singed his whiskers and
burned his nose. It broke him all up, as Roland after-
wards expressed it when telling the story to his com-
panion.

Following up this first blow, the Seminole whacked
the surprised animal again and again with the blazing
torch. Meanwhile Roland had managed to gain his
feet and gathered the rifle in his hands.

He turned toward the scene of action, and was just
A FIRE HUNT IN THE PINE WOODS. 183

in time to press the muzzle of the gun against the side
of the brute. This time the thing was thoroughly
done; with one spasmodic movement the panther ex-
pired.

Roland drew a breath of relief. After the thing was
over he realized the full nature of the peril he had
tempted. His first act was to seize the brown hand
of his companion and press it fervently.

«“ Tommy, you have done me a great service—one 1
shall not soon forget.”

«“Weare even. White boat-boy shoot alligator—
Tommy burn nose of big cat. It is good.”

The next thing to be done was to secure the skin of
the panther. Roland drew his hunting-knife and
madea beginning, but the other with a laugh made him
stand aside and hold the torch while he did the job in
scientific style.

When it was finally accomplished they set out for
the camp. Andrew had heard the first and second re-
ports; the third, being muffled, had not reached his
ears. He was somewhat worried, reasoning that if
Roland had made sure work with the first shot there
would have been no need for a second, and from the
fact of this having been fired it was evident that they
had a wounded panther on their hands.

Hence Andy was considerably relieved to see the
two come stalking into camp, bearing the coveted pelt
along. Of course the story had to be told. Tommy
was very eloquent until he come to the final, which he
dismissed as modestly as he could by saying:

‘¢We kill him, Rolly and me—I burn his nose while
he put bullet in, That do him,”
184 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Rolly, however, was not satisfied to let the matter
rest in that way. He went into detail, and told how
gallantly Tommy had plunged into the encounter,
with only his torch as a weapon, and what a wonder-
ful amount of solid business he accomplished by this
means.

‘IT hope you are satisfied now, Rolly, and will let
this sort of business alone. The danger is too great
for the benefit conferred.”

“Tm satisfied, Andy; but, after all, it was jolly fun,
and I enjoyed it immensely.’

From which Andy could draw the conclusion that
it was only a question of time when the other would
desire to repeat the adventure of their last night in
the Everglades.

Tommy had imparted the pleasing ihtalliwenes that
if all went well on the morrow, with a favorable
breeze, they would in all probability spend their next
night upon the border of the great, lonely island sea,
Okeechobee. This news gave them much satisfaction,
for they had begun to tire of the wandering about over
intricate water-courses, and sighed for a healthy whiff
of salt air again to brace them up. After this ex-
perience the coast would be good enough cruising
ground for them.

Again they talked around the fire. Men thaw out
and become congenial in the hunter’scamp. There is
something in the very air that changes them and
makes them closer friends.
CHAPTER XXVIII.

OKEECHOBEE, THE DISMAL LAKE.









4 AK following morning all was soon
| in readiness for the advance
movement. Our young
canoe cruisers were more
than ordinarily interested in
the fact that on this day
Tommy Tiger had promised

lies in the depressed center of Lower Florida.

This peculiar formation had been a study to men of
science, for it is certainly phenomenal to have a penin-
sula with the highest land on the sea-shore and a
basin for the center instead of mountains.

So the boys started upon this morning with high
hopes. A change was coming, and they welcomed
the very thought; for, however attractive the weird
Everglades had been, by this time they had wearied
of the monotony.

At noon they drew up in the shade of some trees to
eat lunch. It was now close on the first of February,
and already the sun had gained considerable force.
At the time they ate lunch all of them were glad to
186 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

get in the shade, where the breeze could be enjoyed
without the burning of the sun’s rays.

Roland would fain have loitered here for a couple of
hours or more, had there been nothing to hinder; but
Tommy Tiger said that if it was their desire to camp
that night on the border of the great lake, they must
be getting along, so rather reluctantly they moved out
and paddled onward.

Nothing unusual occurred up to about five o’clock.
It was then that the air became more bearable, and
under the lead of the young Seminole they increased
their speed.

The arm or artery which they were following was in
places narrow. More than once the trees overlapped
it above. Hence the scene was a very peculiar one, be-
ing wild and often exceedingly picturesque.

Roland happened to glance upward as he paddled
listlessly along some little distance behind the others,
when suddenly his eyes were attracted toward a cer-
tain spot by a movement among the branches.

It was not very light in this arcade of living trees,
but the bright sky beyond served as a background
upon which different objects were distinctly outlined.

As he glanced upward while wielding the paddle,
Roland felt a sudden thrill pass through his frame. A
pair of yellow eyes glared at him from amid the foli-
age and hanging Spanish moss. At the same time he
could just make out the body of a wild-cat crouching
there.

No time was given him for consideration. He
thought of his gun, but that was all the further it
went, for the fierce brute left the limb at this instant,
OKEECHOBEE, THE DISMAL LAKE. 187

made a beautiful spring, and landed upon the forward
end of the canoe just as the enterprising skipper went
hurriedly over into the drink. This was an involun-
tary act with him, and perhaps it was the most sensi-
ble thing to be done under the circumstances, as there
was no time to reach for his gun, and itis rather a
dangerous thing to meet a wild-cat with one’s bare
hands upon such a small craft as a canoe.

Roland’s shout attracted the attention of his com-
panions. Upon turning back they must have been
greatly surprised to have discovered the true nature
of the situation.

There was Roland swimming in the water near his
canoe, in danger from moccasins and alligators,
while occupying the Sea Urchin was a large wild-cat.
The animal seemed satisfied with its victory and ran
up and down the deck of the canoe like a caged
creature of the menagerie.

Back came the skipper of the Mabel, while close
behind him paddled the Seminole. Andy had already
brought the shotgun into view. One of the barrels
was charged with a buckshot cartridge such as
would pulverize any animal smaller than a panther.

As the other canoes approached the wild-cat stopped
its promenade and showed its teeth with a fierce growl.
Andy dropped his paddle and took up the little Parker.

His canoe continued to move forward under the
momentum acquired, and already it had reached a
point not more than twenty feet from the Sea Urchin.

Andy kept the brute well covered. He did notmean
to fire until dead-sure of his game. That period had
about arrived by this: time, however, and when. it
188 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

looked as though the cat was about to make a second
spring he pressed the trigger.

There was a confused vision of a body whirling
through space. Then it alighted with a splash in the
water beyond. Hardly had it done this than there
came a great rush, a parting of the waters, and a
huge alligator made for the mangled remains of the
tiger-cat.

Roland hastened to mount his little craft again, not
knowing how soon such a monster saurian might
make a dash for himself. He had just managed to
pull himself aboard when there was a snapping sound; —
the huge jaws had closed over the defunct animal, and
it vanished forever from the eyes of the cruisers.

The laugh was on Roland. He really enjoyed it as
much as the next one, though his experience had been
a rough one. Andy complimented him on his agility
in gaining the water, and yet it had been the most
sensible thing for him to do under the circumstances.

Again had the little Parker come in handy, and
performed its work in the most satisfactory manner.
They never knew it to fail when called upon. It
shot clean and with killing powers.

Roland changed his clothes, for he did not feel
very comfortable in wet garments, even though the
sun was so warm. Then they moved on again, keep-
ing a little closer together. Roland had his rifle
where he could readily reach it. This experience
had taught him a lesson he was not apt to forget
very soon.

As they proceeded the boys were filled with eager-
ness to catch the first glimpse of the lake. They
OKEECHOBEE, THE DISMAL LAKE. 189

kept their eyes riveted upon the space ahead, as
though half-fearful lest through some carelessness
they should run a chance of losing that which they
sought.

It was not far from night now, and Tommy had
promised that they should see the lake before the
sun went down. He was making every effort, but
old Sol slid out of sight without the hoped-for gleam
of big water. Tommy Tiger looked disconsolate.
He had promised, and hated to be balked.

‘‘ Half-hour more light we see ’um,’’ he said, but
darkness gradually crept over the land.

‘‘We lost time with my adventure. Now I am
in favor of helping Tommy out. What say, Andy?”

“Light up,” replied the skipper of the Mabel
laconically.

So the lanterns were taken in hana, and presently
like twin orbs shone along the dark creek. The canoes
looked like phantom barks creeping along, first one
then another in front.

“* Listen !’’

It was the young Seminole who uttered this word,
and as the others ceased paddling they caught an-
other sound beyond the rippling of the waters as it was
cleft by the sharp prows of the canoes. This was the
lapping of water upon the shore. It seemed to come
from just beyond. At the same time a breath of cool,
moist air fanned their cheeks.

Impetuously they seized the paddies and with
swift strokes sent the canoes around the bend that had
lain ahead. Then a loud hurrah broke from the lips
of the two canoeists—Okeechobee was before them!
CHAPTER XXVIII.

A CANOE MEET IN THE HEART OF FLORIDA.






ITH the starlight dancing upon the
NN) little waves that rode toward the
shore, the great, mysterious lake
lay there. Beyond acertain quar-
ter all was dark as Egypt, and
=, the boys, looking outward, could
/ readily imagine strange things to
(ESN lie there.
se y They had heard and read much
We. about this dismal lake, almost de-
oe void of fish life, and the fact that
they were now upon its borders gave them a feeling of
awe, such as would have been hard to account for.

‘Now to camp,” cried Andy, as he ran the prow of
the Mabel up on the shore.

‘Tm as hungry as a wolf,’ declared Roland.

Wood was soon found. There need be no trouble
about securing this'in any part of Florida. The pine
burns with a terrible heat, but gives out a very black
smoke. Live oak is better for all culinary purposes.

The camp ax was soon at work, and while Andy
bent over the fire and prepared the main part of the
evening meal, Roland chopped a supply of fire-wood.
The water having boiled by this time, he prepared a
large pannikin of good English breakfast tea. There


A CANOE MEET IN THE HEART OF FLORIDA. 191

is nothing so refreshing in the woods. When taken
hot it warms and cheers a cold man wonderfully,
while if drank cold it lowers the temperature of the
heated man’s body.

It was to be their last night in the company of the
young Seminole. For this both of the canoe cruisers
were sorry. He had proven a most desirable compan-
ion, one they were loth to part with. Hach of them
made hima present to remember them by. Tommy
was very quiet all evening, and it looked as though he
was really sorry to leave his young white friends.

The night was uneventful. Once Roland waked up,
and found that the breeze had increased in force, so
that the waves were lapping the shore with quite a
little roar. He got up and went to see that the boats
were not banging against each other, and drew each
one up a little further on the miniature beach. After
this duty had been performed he went back to his
couch with an easier mind.

At dawn they were up. Tommy bade them good-by
after breakfast, and turned his dug-out canoe into the
narrow stream from which they had issued the previ-
ous evening.

Having gotten everything in readiness for a beat to
windward, the cruisers hoisted sail, and with a cheer
dashed out upon the dark waters of Okeechobee. It
was 0 great relief to be sailing again. Paddling was
all very well in its place, but true enjoyment was only
to be found in lying back and gliding through the
water without any personal exertion on their part.

As the morning: advanced the wind increased until

it blew a stiff nor’wester. There were no clouds in
192 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

sight, so that a storm was not to be looked for. All
morning long they battled against the head sea.
Progress was not satisfactory under these circum-
stances, and toward noon Andy declared that with the
next leg he meant to give it up and go ashore.

Roland was nothing loth, though he would not have
suggested such a policy for worlds, as he was particu-
larly sensitive about such things. So, when they went
upon the starboard tack and headed in shore, both of
them kept their eyes about in order to discover where
there would be a good place for a camp.

If this wind held out they might remain here storm-
bound for several days, and it was just as well to
make a good camp. Both were considerably splashed,
for the waves rolled higher than the cruisers had ex-
pected to see upon this inland sea, striking the bow
and side of each boat with a-thud and sending the
spray over the deck with a liberal supply for the
skipper.

Drawing near the shore, to their disgust they found
there was no place for camping. It seemed to be
pretty much of a swamp, with mangroves as the
border. These particular trees grow better along
the salt-water bayous of the coast, but they are to be
found almost everywhere in southern Florida.

There was no help for it but to anchor in a cove, un-
less they wished to run back to the scene of their pre-
vious night’s camp, and somehow it appeared that
neither of the boys felt like throwing away the three
miles they had spent the entire morning in gaining.

Hence it was finally determined to stand by the
boats. They had slept in them before, and one night
A GANOE MEET IN THE HEART OF FLORIDA. 193

more or less mattered little. The evening meal was
cooked separately, and the boats drawn close enough
together so that the skippers could converse easily.

Tents had been triced up and all preparations made
for a wild night. All was snug, the anchors cast out
from the stern after a line had been carried to the man-
groves in front. The strong breeze brought relief in
one way. There were no mosquitoes or other insect
pests abroad, and the boys talked and sang without
hiding themselves behind the bars.

As night closed in the wind softened materially,
and at turning-in time Roland believed it was about
to die out; but when he awoke in the dead of night it
blew stronger than ever, the tent wobbled, and even
the canoe tugged viciously at her tether as though
mad from restraint.

The sky was no longer bright. Clouds obscured the
heavenly bodies. Was it a storm coming down upon
them? Roland doubted this fact, for, although his
experience of Northers had not been very extensive,
he knew that they seldom, if ever, came in this way,
but rushed down after a clear, mild spell.

Again it was morning. Another change had taken
place, for the wind was now in the east. This suited
them greatly, as it would give them a stiff breeze over
the starboard quarter. They made beautiful progress
all through the earlier part of the morning, but the
breeze proved very unstable, and finally died out en-
tirely, leaving them the choice of paddling or going
ashore.

They had made such good time that paddling was
not to be thought of, so they believed it would be as
194 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

well to rest until the afternoon breeze arose. At this
point the shore was much more favorable for camping
purposes, being high ground.

As they drew in they were surprised to see the
smoke of a fire rising above the trees. Former ex-
perience had taught them to be wary, as there was no
telling whom they might run across, so they approach-
ed cautiously, and kept one eye on their guns, which
lay handy to their touch.

A man appeared on the edge of the water, and with
his arm beckoned them toapproach. There was some-
thing in his dress and manner that bespoke the gentle-
man and inspired confidence, so they made for the
little neck of land upon which and among the trees
burned the fire.

As they drew nearer they became even more con-
fident. The gentleman sported luxuriant side-whisk-
ers, and, besides, there was a general air about him
that gave them the impression of his being here for
sport.

It turned out just so. Around the fire was a party
of two others. When the boys had come in closer they
discovered the means that had been employed in reach-
ing this place.

“Canoes, by the holy smoke !” cried Andy.

«* And bless me if that isn’t Neide!”’

As they landed all doubt was removed, for a warm
clasp of the hand from the redoubtable doctor and
veteran canoeist told them he was on deck as usual.

His companions were now introduced, and proved
to be a party of Northern young men who were down
in the land of oranges and sunshine after sport.
A CANOE MEET IN THE HEART OF FLORIDA. 195

A merry party they made of it that night around
the camp-fire. Yarns werespun, jokes cracked, and
every old shanty song that had ever done duty around
the fire of a canoe meet was resurrected and made to
do duty again, the whole of them whooping the chorus,
until the very hanging moss in the dark forest aisles
trembled and waved in unison.

So the jolly doctor had to troll out “ Rolling down
to Old Mohea”’ and “ Roll a Man Down,” while the
rest in turn did what they could to make this camp-fire
one that would long be remembered and marked with
a white stone in their log-books.

The other party was bound south, so that they
would have to part in the morning. Our boys were
loth to leave such a jolly crowd, but they had marked
out their plans and must abide by them.

It was late that night when they retired, and soon
the snoring that arose proclaimed that the main part
of them were far gone in the land of Nod. Abouttwo
or three o’clock there was an alarm as a sudden yell
rang out on the night air.

The whole party were immediately awake. Such a
hubbub as arose! Was ita panther in the camp, or
had: the cowboys of the overflowed lands attempted to
steal their boats? One of the party was noticed about
this time dancing frantically around with both hands
clutching his right leg below the knee, and shouting
as he hobbled :

““T’m a goner! Somebody, use his knife! Quick!
‘relieve me from this agony!”’

Was the man mad, or had he been struck by the
deadly fangs of a rattlesuake? A feeling of awe
196 : PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

came upon the party. Each one was endeavoring
to think what would be the best plan to carry

out in order. to save the man.
One only under-

stood the case, and
this was our Andy.
He quietly took out
his knife and sprang:
over to the side of
the excited fellow.
One sweep of the
keen blade, and the
piece of cloth to
which the other was
clinging came out.

He hastily dashed
it to the ground, and
Andy made sure to
put his foot upon the
centipede that was
underneath. Then
the rest realized the
truth. The danger
was past, and they
burst out into a
hearty laugh that
made the welkin ring,

The young fellow who had been the cause of this
midnight alarm had recovered by this time and could
join in the general laugh at the round hole in his
trousers leg.

He had been awakened from sound slumber by feel.


A CANOE MEET IN THE HEART OF FLORIDA. 197

ing the reptile climbing up his trousers, and, realizing
the situation, knew that there was only one way of
saving himself. So witha sudden and dexterous move-
ment he snatched the centipede away in the loose leg
of his trousers, and then let out a yell.

«* Bad as the fish Ned here caught one day up at Jax.
As he went to take the hook out,lo and behold ! the
critter snapped its jaws shut on his hand, and he
howled enough to shake the sails out of the boat. Got
the marks of each fish tooth yet, eh Ned?’’? And the
doctor punched his other companion in the ribs.

No harm was done by the centipede, and when the
boys had guyed the victim enough they once
more sought their blanket couches. The rest of the
night passed quietly enough, though there was the
usual chorus around them. All had nets, however,
so that the little torments of the Florida woods found
no means of whetting their bills upon their persons.

Early dawn came, but the boys were tired, and
it was some time before they gathered around the fire
to do justice to the meal Roland and the veteran
doctor got up, suitable for the occasion.
CHAPTER XXX.

DEER STALKING,







WO more days of this work, and
under favorable auspices, they
ought to pullupat the beautiful
little village of Myers. Here
they would be but a few hours’
sail from Punta Rossa and the
Gulf, if nothing happened to

send them off their course.

On the night in question, they came to
anchor in the second little lake, believing
it was better than the canal. The sky
was clear and there seemed every promise
for a good morrow.

With considerable satisfaction in the thought that
there was hope of soon reaching salt water and seeing
human beings again, the boys prepared the evening
meal. Both were unusually jolly. They talked of
the delicious oysters upon which ere long they would
be revelling, of the bay birds that must fall victims
to the little Parker, and the fine fish of all kinds ready
almost to jump into the camp frying-pan. Then
again, they would draw in new life from the salty
breezes, so different from the atmosphere of the
swampy interior. They acted like a couple of children

{
i)
DEER STALKING. 205

anticipating a new toy, and more than once laughed
at the conceit. ,

Another prospect pleased them. They did not like
this thing of sleeping separately in the canoes. True,
it was a necessity, and the opportunities for camp
life among the Florida Everglades were very few
indeed, but, as has been noted, they took advantage
of every one.

They loved the cheery camp-fire, and it was so much
more comfortable to sleep under the shore tent than
doubled up in the canoes. Hence, they hailed with
joy the prospect of being able to spend about all their
nights out of the boats, where one could hardly turn
over when cramped, such was the multitude of articles
that lay around.

Roland was naturally of an inquisitive mind. He
liked to pry around. So when they had eaten their
evening meal, and gotten things ready for the night, ,
he took the little Parker, with the belt of shells, and
strayed off into the woods.

The sun had not yet gone down, and he fancied that
he might get ashot at some game before dark. Sucha
thing would. bring an addition to their larder, which
by this time was getting exceedingly low.

Andy called out some words of caution which
brought a laughing reply from Roland, who then
vanished among the trees. He had on his high wad-
ing rubber boots. The surroundings were rather
marshy, and had undoubtedly been subject to annual
overflow previous to the completion of the great canal.

As Roland walked along he kept his eyes well about
him for game. It mattered not what he got—deer,
206 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

turkey or even squirrels. The latter would make a
fine stew for breakfast, though naturally he preferred
some other food, such as the venison or turkey.

For some little time he saw nothing worth using a
shell upon. Coons were plenty, and even a fat opos-
sum ran across his path, but his taste did not go in
this direction, though the sight of these delicacies
would have made a darkey’s mouth water.

So Roland wandered on He was intent upon his
business, and had no idea of getting lost. Andy’s
warning had fallen upon his ears but in a dead fashion,
for he believed that by this time he ought to know
enough to get back to camp again.

He noticed which way he went and even made a
blaze now and then with his hatchet. This was all
very good so far as it went, but there were other
things to be taken into consideration—and which
cropped up later. The wind arose. When it came it
rustled the palmetto trees with such vigor as to drown
all other sounds. This was good for stalking a deer,
and Roland was only anxious to discover the signs of
such noble game.

Sure enough he did get a glimpse of a deer through
the woods. The animal was leisurely running along.
Whether it had discovered the hunter by reason of
its keen scent, or was simply changing its feeding-
ground, he could not of course say, but there im-
mediately sprang up a hope that he might secure the
animal.

So he broke into a run and followed as fast as the
nature of the ground would permit. In the course of
ten minutes he sighted his game. The deer had come
DEER STALKING. 907

to a pause and appeared to be browsing, as though it
had found a spot where the new grass grew.

Roland now began to bring his training into play.
He wanted that deer badly and was determined to
have it if sucha thing lay within human power. The rat-
tling of the great palmetto leaves together in the wind
would prevent even the keen ears of the animal from
hearing his approach, but there was more difficulty
with regard to its wonderful sense of smell. He
must get to leeward at once and advance upon the
game from that quarter. Then there would be a
reasonable hope that the result might reach his expec-
tations.

Carefully he set about this business.- In a short
time he was within range. The deer had not shown
any signs of alarm. He held his fire, as there was a
chance that at this distance he might only wound his
game and it was his desire to make sure work.

Cautiously he advanced, taking advantage of every
object that would afford him shelter. There was
little need of this now, for the night was coming on.
Already it had grown dusk, and the chances of be-
ing discovered became smaller with each passing
minute.

Finally Roland found that he was as close as he had
any desire. The gun was brought toa level. Just at
this instant, as though warned of impending peril, the
buck whisked his tail. This was a sign that he was
about to raise his head again and look around.

The young deer stalker waited for no more, but
let drive with a will. As the shot rung out his
game gave a leap into the air and then fell in a heap.
208 PADDLING IN. FLORIDA.

One of the buckshot out of the round dozen in the shell,
had evidently reached a vital part.

Roland was at the spot in a minute and had bled his
game. This fone he spent a short time getting the
game ready to carry. It would make quite a load,
but he believed he could carry it—where? A thrill
ran through his frame as he realized that he had
lost his bearings. In what direction the camp lay he
could not say.

Roland smiled at first, for it seemed ridiculous. The
worst that could happen to him he believed, was to
spend a night in the woods. This was nothing
terrible to a boy of his resolute courage, and he pre-
“pared to do the best that was possible.

First of all he fired his gun twice in rapid suc-
cession. Was there any reply? If so his ears fail-
ed to catch it. This was the only thing he could do,
and having proved that nothing could be hoped for in
that line, he set about preparing in a philosophical
way for the night’s camp.

Soon he had a cheerful fire blazing. Some part of
the freshly-killed buck was sliced off and the: appetiz-
ing odor went up in theair, making his hunger even
more acute. When all was ready he sat down and
made a good meal: All the while he was thinking
what Andy must be doing. One thing Roland re-
gretted, this was his destitution with regard to a
mosquito net. It promised to be a hard night with
him. Perhaps he would not be able to sleep, but have
to situp all night burning a smudge to keep the
buzzing pests at bay.

He was sitting there masticating the last piece of
DEER STALKING. 269

venison, and thinking how nice it was, being in quite
a contented frame of mind, when he was suddenly
startled to hear a crackling in the bushes as under
a heavy tread.

Could it be Andy? Perhaps his camp was nearer
the canoes than he had suspected—his course might
have been something of a circular one—and the light
of his camp-fire could have reached Andy’s eyes
under such circumstances.

But stay—that tread was too heavy for his com-
panion. It could not be he. Roland remembered
that they had already run across some pretty hard
customers in these Florida woods, and hence he un-
consciously put out his hand to draw his faithful Parker
nearer.


CHAPTER XXIX.

CRUISING THROUGH THE CANAL,



HE best of friends must part,
and our canoeists were no
exception to the rule. It
was about nine o’clock when
Andy and his comrade, tak-
ing advantage of the favoring
breeze, pushed out from the
shore and once more picked
up the thread of their cruise.

The south-bound adventurers gave them a cheer as
they sped away, to which our friends replied with a
blast upon their trumpets. Then they lost sight of
Neide and his party, and were forced to pay attention
to their own interests.

From what their friends had told them, the mouth
of the canal was only twelve miles away from the scene
of their camp. If the breeze held out at all they shoula
find no difficulty in gaining it before night.

Progress was made for an hour, and then, to their
disappointment, the wind failed. They were perhaps
seven miles away. Roland saw Andy get out his
double blade, and from this he knew it was to be a
spruce breeze.

Nothing loth, he also set to work. The sails were
allowed to remain in place for two reasons. First, they
caught a little air that stirrea now and then, aiding

4
CRUISING THROUGH THE CANAL. 199

their progress to some extent. Then again part of the
time they shaded the working canoeists from the burn-
ing rays of the sun. So on they went merrily, making
good time, and keeping up a conversation with relation
to the canoe friends from whom they had just parted
that morning.

At noon they halted to rest. There was no need of
working during the hottest hours, and this was an un-
usually warm day for the time.of year. Under the
trees they ate a cold lunch and lay down for a siesta,
seeing that they had not slept as long on the previous
night as usual.

Roland was aroused by his companion, who pointed
to gathering clouds. It wassuggestive enough to tell
the story. The hot day was a storm breeder of the
worst type. Perhaps they were to experience a Norther
that would be a terror because it came so late.

« What shall we do—go on, Andy ?”’

“Then let’s be on the jump.”

“ J don’t like this place for acamp. The woods are
too open, and would afford us little or no protection.
We can’t do worse and may do better.”’

That was the word to cover the situation. There
was no breeze, so that they must depend entirely upon
their paddles. When in camp their friends had given
them some little idea of what the canal was, so that
they could not plead ignorance on this score. It would
afford them a splendid harbor, no matter from what
direction the wind came, and this was a fact to be taken
into consideration; but they must not expect to go
ashore there, as the ground would never permit it.

Both of them took solid comfort in the thought that in
200 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

afew more daysthey would again be on salt water.

It was like a new life—the very idea of it. No more

of this prowling about the wilderness of the Everglades,

the haunt of the alligator and yellow moccasin, for.
them. This one experience was enough to last forever.

So they thought at the time while experiencing the

worst of its discomforts. Later on, in looking back,

these would all be forgotten, and only the incidents re-

membered that brought pleasurable emotions.

They pushed on valiantly, stripped to trousers and
flannel shirt. Both were keeping a sharp lookout
ahead for the marks which would tell them the canal
was near.

It was one of the longest stretches Roland ever pad-
dled, and all the while the storm clouds were moving
up closer. Something was about to happen, tat was
sure.

At last a glad shout from Andy announced that the
long-looked-for landmark had been sighted. The fact
gave them new life, and they urged their little craft
on witha cheer. It was none too soon. The storm
was near and already thunder boomed in the west.
Andy had declared he never heard of so many storms
in a season in lower Florida. Cruisers, however, are
ready to take things just about as they come and not
quarrel with the weather clerk, knowing that they
must have their proportion of good and bad days.

The canal was reached and they turned into it just
as the rain began to fall. Not minding this they kept
on for some little time, and finding it did not improve
any, decided upon coming to a halt then and there.

So they tied up, and went to work raising the tents.
CRUISING THROUGH THE CANAL. 201

This western storm was very apt to turn into a
Norther. Again they experienced the discomforts in-
cident upon such a position. Their predictions were
fulfilled. The Norther came and proved violent. Ro-
land’s canoe was within an ace of being overturned,
and for a little time there was a scene of wild excite-
ment. This quieted down eventually, and they found
themselves in for a siege. Luckily it proved to be a
short-lived storm so that they were enabled to go on
the next morning.

New scenes opened up now. This canal runs from
Okeechobee through Lake Flirt and another small sheet
of water to the Caloosahatchee River. It has drained
great tracts of land and made the soil available for
such products as sugar cane.

The canal is a weird place. Thousands of yellow
moccasins throng its waters in places, the bite of which
is said to produce spasms and often death. Roland
hated to sleep in such a den, and when raising his tent
made doubly sure that the loops were securely buttoned
down, for he declared he had no desire to wake up in
the night and find the Sea Urchin a lodging-house for
these terrible yellow water-snakes.

It was a strange place they rested in during the
next night. The walls of the canal reared themselves
on either side. Cries from beasts and birds could be
heard issuing from the woods and at least one of our
friends failed to recognize many of them.

Once Rolandawoke. Something had rubbed against
the Sea Urchin’s side. Naturally his first thought
was that it must be an alligator that had slipped into
the canal. Perhaps the reptile would be trying to com
202 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

on board next, and in the endeavor upset the canoe.
Filled with this thought Rolly seized his rifle and open-
ing the side of his tent looked out. To his surprise a
gun was poked in his face, and a voice said :

‘Surrender, Sea Robin !”

‘“Halloo! Andy, I’m after an alligator that has
been trying to mount the Robin for some time.”

«“ Well, I’m after the same fellow for trying to crawl
into the Mabel.”

They looked at each other comically and then burst
into a laugh.

*¢ We'll pulverize the villain, Andy.’’

‘Yes, we'll analyze him after we’ve reduced him to
a state of pancake flatness.”

“* Really what’s the row, old fellow ?”

“‘Mabel’s got lonely, that’s all.”

“The boat? Ridiculous!”

“Well, she strayed over here, dragging her stern
anchor, just to rub noses with the Urchin.’’

“False alarm. Work back again, old fellow, and
good night. I’m afraid some of these yellow wrigglers
may want to get familiar in case the door is left open
too long !’”

Saying which Roland withdrew from the public
gaze, and retired to rest. He had investigated the
cause of the alarm to his satisfaction. This time Andy
secured his boat so that the wind could not carry it
around again, consequently there was no further alarm,
and the night passed away.

Both of them were anxious to reach salt water. Of
all the places they had been in this canal was the worst,
and every hour spent along its course was a burden.
CRUISING THROUGH THE CANAL. 208

So they were agreed upon the one point that they
should make all speed possible in order to leave such
distasteful scenes behind.

As they paddled along, the moccasins would often

glide from under the bow of the canoe, throw them-
selves into a striking attitude upon the top of the
water, and appear both venomous and defiant.
_ Roland found the temptation too strong, and with
his sharp-edged paddle he cut many of them almost
in two for their defiance. So frequently were they
seen, that it was several days before he could dismiss
the sight of them from his mind.

This was not the only peril to which they were ex-
posed. In such a place as this, malaria lurks. It
only requires a little indiscretion in drinking the water,
to bring on a terrible attack of break-bone fever or
some like disease.

They felt these things threatening them, and the
supply of water was getting very low in spite of the
most rigid econorny ; hence they did not mean to de-
lay more than they could help, but push for the Gulf.
CHAPTER XXXI.

ON GUARD ALL NIGHT.

HE party approaching entered
the circle of light from the
‘camp-fire and stood still.

‘‘Halloo! stranger, can you
spare me a bit of venison and
seat by your fire?’

Roland looked up. He was
not favorably impressed with
the man’s appearance. Hesaw
i a party, sturdy in figure, with
“a black beard that covered

~~" his whole face and gave him
pretty much of a piratical look.

“‘ One of those characters I’ve heard about who hide
from justice in these Florida swamps. Perhaps it is
a murderer,” thought Roland.

The idea was far from being pleasant, but he knew
he must not express his.thoughts aloud or even look
‘ what he felt. Such aman might shoot upon the least
provocation.

“Certainly, stranger. Plenty of meat there. Draw
and slice off all you want.”

The other deposited his gun against a tree and set to
work. Hetalked very little. Roland believed he had
come across a strange customer, and meant to study
him. He would have lots of chances for so doing if



ent}
ON GUARD ALL NIGHT. 911

the man concluded to stay with him over night.

After he had eaten heartily of the venison the other
thawed out a little, and became more genial. He
even told several little yarns, and in one mentioned
something about a sheriff.

Roland’s suspicions were confirmed by several little
things like this, and he had no doubt now but that the
other was a fugitive from justice. The last thing he
wanted the other to suspect was that he might
possibly be an officer of the law, and in order to divert
his mind as far as possible from this possibility, he
even gave out little hints now and then as to his past
which made him out a young rascal, and caused the
other to eye him curiously.

The hour grew late. Neither one offered to retire,
each distrusting the other. The mosquitoes were bad
—there could be no gainsaying that, and eternal
vigilance was the only thing that saved them from the
ferocious assults of the bands that hovered near, but
this was only an excuse for remaining on the alert.

Both sides slept on their arms, so to speak, and
through the live long night watched each other
between dozes, built fresh smudges, and kept the fire
going, for once the cry of a panther in the woods had
come to their ears.

It was the longest night Roland ever put in. At
dawn, haggard and feeling quite aged, he breathed his
thanks at being permitted to see the light of another
day, and then set about cooking breakfast for himself.

The stranger also arose and followed suit. His
haggard appearance told that he had not obtained
any sleep, through fighting the little pests.
212 PADDLING IN FLORIDA,

Not a word was spoken as they ate. Each eyed
the other suspiciously, and yet Roland thought he
detected a gleam in the other’s eye, whether of humor
or malice he could not say. Finally the time had come
to separate. .

“Permit me to hand you my card,’ said the black-
bearded villain.

Was this a trick by means of which he desired to
distract the other’s attention? Roland was not to be
so easily duped. Without looking at the other’s card,
he took out one of his own and handed it to the pirate,
who also thrust it into his pocket.

“* Good morning, friend,” said the other, as he backed
away from the scene of the night’s torture, just as a
crab or crayfish might.

Roland held his gun in his hand, and was ready to
give as good as he might receive, but nodding and
smiling the other reached the trees and dodged in
among them. ;

Picking up his game, made ready in a pack, the boy
hunter, who had already laid off his course, started
for camp. He had his bearings through a small com-
pass he invariably carried, and felt sure of bringing
up along the shore of the lake. From this point it
would not be hard determining which way to go, as
only two paths would lie before him. He strode on
bravely. The sun began to mount the eastern sky,
and his burden told more with each passing minute.

Twice he stopped torest. (On one of these occasions he
started with an exclamation of glad surprise. There was
a “blaze”? upon a liveoak just infront of him—a mark
that was very familiar because he had made it himself.
ON GUARD ALL NIGHT. 913

Then this must be his trail—he had come this way
when on his hunt. He tried to go over it again, but
soon lost all track of his course. Still he had the gen-
eral direction and meant to stick at it.

The wind having died down, he heard several shots
fired in quick succession, and answered the signal by
two shots. Then came a blast on Andy’s trumpet,
which the lost deer hunter replied to with several loud
shouts. All was well.

Inten minutes he had hold of Andy’s hand, and was
sbaking it vigorously. Then he stalked over to the
fire and tossed the venison down.

“‘ LT supposed you were overtaken by darkness and
would camp in the woods, coming in some time during
the morning. What’s the matter with your face?”

“ Matter enough! Skeeters.”

“Then you didn’t take my advice. I always carry
my little head net along, and no matter where I camp,
I can defy all the mosquitoes in the Pelican State.”

“Tt wouldn’t have mattered on this occasion, al-
though I mean never to be without it again.”

** What's that?”

“Thad company at my camp-fire last night.”’

* T thought so, Rolly.”

* You did, eh? What gave you the idea ?”’

“T couldn’t make up my mind that you had eaten
all that venison.”

Roland laughed heartily.

““ What sort of company was it—a panther ?”’

“ Two-legged one, I reckon.”

““Indeed! Then you ran across another hard case
like those we met before.’’
14 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

“ Yes, a genuine desperado. He had a dark beard
and was my very ideal of a pirate. We sat awake
the live long night, staring at each other, he waiting
fora chance to cut my throat, and I with the Parker
here across my lap ready to blow him into eternity.”

‘* A strange situation, indeed.’’

«Yes, and when we parted Igave him my card to
remember meby. He handed me onealso. Where did
I put it? Pm sure he handed me something of the
kind.”’

Roland fumbled in his pockets.

“ Ah! there itis. See what the outlaw calls him-
self. Thunder Bob perhaps, or some such piratical
name.”

Andy took the card, glanced at it and laughed,
much to his companion’s surprise.

“ Ah! its very funny is it? Suppose you let me
have a peep.”

No sooner had his eyes fallen upon the name than he
too uttered an exclamation of most intense astonishb-
ment. What did he see?

“ Pror. GODWIN PARKER,
Smithsonian Institute.’’

Roland gaped for a minute, and then as the full
force of the joke broke in upon him he laughed until
the tears ran down his cheeks. Fancy the ludicrous
situation—these two intelligent beings sitting up all
night, each believing the other to be a desperado who
only wanted an opportunity to do murder most foul.

‘*T’'m glad of one thing, Andy.” :

“© What’s that ?”’

«The joke isn’t on me alone. When the professor
ON GUARD ALL NIGHT. 215

looks at my card I'll warrant you that he feels like
kicking himself too, to think what gumps we were
not to introduce ourselves.”’

«You would have found him a very entertaining
talker for a pirate.”’

“ You know him ?”

“¢ Very well indeed. The Professor and myself have
often had an argument. He would have entertained
you so well that sleep would have been a stranger to
your eyes.”

“ That’s what he did. Now, why is he down in this
wilderness do you suppose ?”’

“‘Some scientific research, I presume. Florida
presents a promising field for such a ripe scholar as
the professor, you understand, and I know he has made
several visits here collecting birds, fishes and insects,
besides studying the peculiar formation of the penin-
sula. The last visit he made he was struck by a
rattler on the leg, and had quite a time of it generally.”

*“ Well, it’s a good joke on us. I shall make ita
point to call upon the Professor when we strike Wash-
ington, homeward bound, and have a jolly laugh over
this business.’’

That was Roland’s way of taking a joke, even though
he himself was the victim.
CHAPTER XXXII.

ON THE “HATCHEE RIVER.

3) ELL, this isn’t business. The
question now before the house is
shall we go on our journey, or do
you want to lie over and sleep.”

**Go on by all means. Pll try
and make up in the night. We

must endeavor to reach the salt water as

soon as possible.’’
“Good. Allis ready here. I have done
your packing so all that remains is for you
to jump in and we’ll push off.”’

Nosooner said thandone. Roland stowed
the remains of the venison away. It would have to be
eaten soon, or become unfit for food. This is one of
the worst features about Florida hunting-life—game
spoils so easily. Out in Colorado a deer or elk will
hang in camp days and weeks without showing signs
of decay, such are the wonderful preservative qualities
of that dry atmosphere.

It was after ten o’clock when the expedition once
more bent to their paddles. Again the prows of the
gallant canoes cut the water, and left a wake behind
them, urged on by the muscular arms of the young
skippers,





ON THE ’HATCHEE RIVER. 217

At half after eleven they were once more in the canal.
Here the same scenes were all around them to which
they had grown so accustomed in the days gone by.
Yellow moccasins glided through the water in all
directions. Luckily neither of our young adventurers
had as yet been struck by one of these reptiles, though
both had experienced narrow escapes. They did not care
to experiment in order to find out whether the many
tales they had heard of these things weretrue. Men
were said to have become crazy when struck by a
water moccasin, the poison affecting the brain. Others
had died. Still more declared it was all a delusion—
that the yellow moccasin was not of a poisonous
species at all. The safest course was to give the
reptile and all his kind a wide berth. That was what
our boys had done.

They pushed on with new resolution, taking the
keenest of satisfaction in the thought that their jour-
ney inland was almost completed, and that when so
many hours had elapsed they would again be plough-
ingsalt water. Hagerly they looked forward to the first
glimpse of the blue waters of the Gulf again, and were
ready to greet it with a hurrah!

By good work they managed to reach the termina-
tion of the canal before sundown, and when that heav-
enly luminary went to rest the canoes were floating
upon the bosom of the Caloosahatchee River.

At this point the stream presented none of the noble
qualities that mark it from Myers to the Gulf, where it
is often miles in width and bordered with great pine
forests. Up near its source the river is like many an-
other stream in Florida, narrow, dark, shallow, and
218 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

bordered very often by the swamps out of which oozes
the water that practically forms the stream itself.

Our boys found no good place to camp, as the bank
was a marsh, so they anchored as they had done on
many a previous occasion.

Birds were plentiful in this place. From the way
the egrets and ibis flew over it was evident that some-
where back of the big swamp could be found a rookery
or roost. Andy thought it strange the miserable bird-
skin hunters had allowed this, for one would think
they would have cleaned out a place so convenient.

Few alligators can be found upon any of the rivers
accessible to the ordinary tourist, for they have been
shot long since. If one desires to see them in all their
pristine glory it is necessary to enter the interior of
southern Florida, where they can be found by thou-
sands.

Even here the market hunter is making havoc
among them, for of late years alligator skin has come
into more general use for scores of purposes, and brings
a good price. The time will come when the huge
saurian will hardly be found in all the South.

Along the upper St. Johns some years ago, the
traveler could see hundreds of them and it used to bea
favorite amusement for the passengers to sit on the
deck of the aucient cheese box that served as a steam-
boat, and pop away with their rifles at every living
thing they saw. This practice has long since been
stopped, but too late to bring back the alligator, few
of them being seen on the trip, and these scuttling into
the water with the utmost haste at sight of the boat
rounding a bend.
ON THE °HATCHEE RIVER. 919

It was a glorious evening. The air was balmy, and
our boys enjoyed every minute of the time. Roland
tried fishing, but the success was not good enough.-to
warrant his keeping it up long. Andy amused him-
self with the rifle. Lying on deck he popped away at
some of the birds flying over.

Being-a good marksman he brought several of them
down, and was lucky enough to distribute them equally,
just as he wanted—one wood-ibis, one egret, a white
crane and a blue heron.

Here was work for the evening—four large birds to
skin and pack away in the preparation of arsenic they
had brought for such a purpose.

The boys intended mounting all these specimens at
a future date. As their provisions ran low, they had
a better chance to stock up in this way. At Myers
they meant to send the skins North and then lay in a
new supply of food and water.

During their cruise thus far they had done little
slaughtering of birds. Thousands of chances had
offered, but unless they wanted them for food or speci-
mens they had rarely killed any feathered creature.

Some cruisers in their place would have marked
their trail with the victims of their cruel desire to slay.
It is a mercy that we now have in this beautiful
country an Audubon Society, the thousands of mem-
bers being pledged to do their best in order to prevent
the wanton slaying of our native birds for hat deco-
rative purposes. Of course game birds in season are
not included in this list, but protection aids in their
propagation as well as that of robins, bullfinches and
cat-birds, It is a noble work, and all honor to those
~

220 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

who conceived the project and the little army that has
carried the plan into practical execution.

The evening meal over, our boys worked on the birds,
which were carefully skinned. When this job was
done, it was time to retire, for they were both weary,
and Roland could hardly keep his eyes open. Once he
fell asleep over his work, and was only aroused by
Andy’s laugh.

They were lulled to sleep by the murmur of the
little waves against the planking of their boats and
the regular chorus arising from the swamp.

As usual Andy awoke two or three times, and on
each oceasion poked his head outside for an observa-

tion. It seemed almost too beautiful a night to sleep.
The moon had arisen late, and was flooding everything
with her glorious light. The live oaks with their long
streamers of Spanish moss floating in the breeze being
outlined against the clear, star-decked heavens, had a
sort of spectral look.

Roland’s regular breathing, coming from his tent,
announced that he was fast locked in the arms of
Morpheus. Andy, finding that all was well, retired
each time, and was asleep in five minutes. They
required no sentry or guard over that camp, for danger
did not menace them.

With their usual promptness they were on deck
early in the morning, and preparations were soon
under way for breakfast. At eight by the watch the
mud-hooks were stowed away and the sails sheeted
home, for there was now a little chance of doing some
sailing, and although the progress was no better than
might have been done with the paddle, there was a
ON THE ’HATCHEE RIVER. 221

vast amount of satisfaction about being able to lie
back against the dandy mast and see the little craft
glide through the dark water with nature’s own pro-
pelling power.

When the afternoon began to wane and they found
they were not going to get near the pretty little vil-
lage of Myers on this day, they reached the wise con-
clusion that perhaps it would be as well for them to
camp at the first favorable spot.

About four o’clock Roland pointed out a pretty place
where a clump of trees overhung the water, and a
srassy bank was seen—a most unusual occurrence in
these parts.

So the little flotilla was brought about and headed
for the shore. The closer they got to land the prettier
this little scene appeared, and when they finally went
ashore they were delighted with the prospect.

Their last camp in the interior was by far the pret-
tiest of the cruise.

Roland got out his camera and struck off the scene.
He had taken dozens of pictures on the cruise, but
they were stowed away without development, so' that
little time had been lost in their manipulation.

Later on, when he got home, he developed the whole
lot, and made a good job, so that both of the boys
treasure the album containing the series from Key
West north above all else. Memory is awakened at
sight of each scene, and they never look through the
book without living over again the memorable canoe
cruise through the Florida Everglades and along the
Gulf coast.

It was Andy this time who picked up the gun and
922 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

wandered off in the woods. The temptation was irre-
sistible, for he too was a born hunter and loved the
odor of the forest. Even if no game could be secured,
he enjoyed such a tramp beyond aii power of analysis.
The noises of the woods proved music in his ears, the
gurgling of a brook thrilled him with pleasure, while
the possibility of meeting game at any turn kept him
in a state of expectancy such as only a true hunter
appreciates. So Andy picked up the rifle and saun<
tered out.


CHAPTER XXXIIt.

RESTING AT MYERS.

E was not the one to get lost,
being exceedingly cautious. At
the same time he thought a meet-
ing with a deer, turkey, or even a
pear, when armed with Colt’s
lightning repeater, would prove
something of a lark.

He looked in vain for big game,
Once he saw a deer just vanishing
in the woods far away, but offer-
ing him no chance at all. Finally
he turned back to camp and pick.
ing up the shot-gun went in

another direction, under the belief that he might find

quail.
Of course he ran across a deer, now that he carried No.

8 shot. The animal sprang out almost under his feet,

and bounded away. Andy brought his gun to bear

instantly, but did not fire. He could have laid the

animal low had he held the rifle, or even possessed a

buckshot cartridge in his gun, but the birdshot would

have simply made a stinging wound, and he was not
the boy to glory in such things. If he did not feel


224 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

pretty sure of his game he would not fire. To cause
unnecessary pain went against his nature.

Presently he raised a flock of quail and got five out
of it with both barrels. Florida quail are easy to
shoot after one has learned a certain fact. More than
one sportsman has found that he overshot his mark,
simply because the quail here begin to descend toward
the earth almost immediately, unlike their cousins
from Carolina north.

Andy took a roundabout course and came back to the
camp in a different line. As luck would have it he
started up a bear. The animal made haste to get out
of the way, and Andy was quite willin g to accommodate
his lordship, for he stood and let him go, although once
he half raised the gun, into which he had slipped the
only buckshot shell in the belt, as though tempted to
give him a try.

Meanwhile Bruin ambled away, and the young
cruiser continued his walk. Upon the river where he
struck it below camp he discovered some ducks. There
were seven of them in all, and two at least looked like
young ones. Andy had a weakness for mallards when
in condition, and he immediately made up his mind to
secure a couple if possible.

They were hardly within range, but he could creep
up the shore and gain a point from which the No. 3
shot would reach them. His first act was to take out
his bird shells and substitute those of a different
nature.

Then he began: crawling along through the scrub
palmetto, anxious to reach his point. As he felt the
needle-like point of the Spanish bayonet leaves prick
RESTING AT MYERS. 225

him he grimly rubbed the injured spot but said noth-
ing. Foot by foot he advanced. Several times he
cautiously raised his head to survey the scene. All
went well. The ducks were still diving and having a
good time generally upon the water.

Night was coming on apace, so that he did not have
much time to spare. When he finally concluded that
he was close enough, he waited until the two ducks he
took to be young ones were near each other, and then
let fly.

As the report rang out there was a great splashing
of the water, accompanied with loud quacking. Five
ducks arose, two remained behind. Of the five one
auickly fell back to water, having been wounded.

Andy did not fire the second barrel at the balance of
the little fiock. He had no use for more than a couple
of the birds. Instead, he took deliberate aim at the
wounded one, and with the report of the gun the duck
lay flat on the river.

There were three ducks dead, but how could he ge,
them? The question was easily decided with regard to
the two first shot. They seemed to be ina sort of eddy
that carried them in toward the shore, and securing a
long stick he managed to pull his game in.

Thoroughly satisfied with what game he had, he
turned back to camp.

On the way he came upon a darkey who had discover-
ed a bee tree and was cutting itdown. Itfellas Andy
reached the spot, and somehow the little pests made
direct for him, ignoring the darkey. What with stum-
bling in the vines that beset his path, and fighting the
wild bees, Andy had a hard time of it. Then he had
226 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

to bribe the darkey to get his ducks for him, and de.
parted for the camp, determined to give falling bee
trees a wide berth hereafter.

Roland had the fire burning, and the frying pan
ready heated, so there was nothing to be done but pre-
pare the quail.

The ducks were kept until the morning, though cook-
ed after supper, for fear of not keeping, and to make
time in the early start. The camp was soon arranged,
the little tent of cheese cloth being a great blessing.
It was hung upon four poles or stakes thrust into the
ground, between which the bed was made.

The night passed quietly. Roland slept lightly
somehow, and woke up half a dozen times. He found
everything all right. On two occasions he got up and
attended to the fire, for the night air was chilly and
raw, and the genial warmth of the blaze was very ac-
ceptable. They had a supply of logs handy, and it
did not require much of an effort to draw one up on
the fire.

Dreary sounds filled the air. The moon shone bril-
liantly from the blue vault above. Something of a
water mist hung over the river. It looked like asilver
veil in the moon’s rays. Roland would never forget
these scenes. They were such as would linger long in
his memory,

Morning came atlast. Again they were under way,
and everything seemed well. Thesails caught the early
breeze and presently they were spinning along down
the river at a lively rate. Ah! this was what they
called solid comfort. Laying back they enjoyed every
minute of it.
Pages
221-228
Missing
From
Original
RESTING AT MYERS. 1999

Asthe day advanced they drew nearer to Myers.
Soon signs of civilization appeared, and at noon pre-
cisely they brought up alongside the dock.

The river at this point was very wide and presented
the appearante of a lake. There they were well re-
ceived and found the people unusually hospitable.
Thomas Edison, the inventor, extended many civilities
to them, and they took great pleasure in visiting his
place and seeing whata beautiful home a man of genius
may have in these days Time was—and only a couple
of hundred years ago—when a man of his mind
would have been burned at the stake as a sorcerer,
while now he commands the homage of the whole
world. It is something to be born in the right age,
after all.

The boys remained at Myers several days to recuper-
ate, for although but a few of their troubles have been
mentioned in these chronicles they had a pretty hard
time of it since leaving Cape Sable, and were much in-
clined to rest now.

They did not make a regular camp, but slept in their
canoes each night. In the morning the tents were
stowed and the canvas hatches buttoned down. There
was not the slightest possibility of anything being
stolen, and the boys did not let such a thought bother
their heads.

On the last day of their stay they laid in a new stock
of groceries, and filled every can with fresh water,
stowing a dozen bottles of it away in corners, the bot-
tles to be thrown away as fast as emptied.

The skins were already on their way North, a steamer
having taken then to Tampa, from whence they would
230 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

be shipped by rail, so that the boys were sure of them,
and well rid of We eee and odor.

All was now insreadiness for the continuation of
their trip. The goods had been neatly stowed, and
everything was in place. Another night would find
them on salt water.

They visited some friends in the evening and had a
pleasant time singing and chatting. Many of their
adventures had to be told, including the great Indian
scare, over which they laughed until the tears came.

At about ten o’clock they departed for the canoes.
Both carried packages of oranges, lemons and pine-
apples, which fruit had been thrust upon them by their
kind friends.

The night was dark, as clouds covered the heavens.
In the east there was a light as though the moon was
rising back of the foggy curtain.

Walking together the boys talked of many things.
They had received quite a pile of letters and papers
when landing at Myers, and the first thing done was
to rush for the post office. The second, Roland always
declared, was to make fora butcher store and buy a
fresh beefsteak for dinner. Living on canned goods
for six weeks to two months gives one quite a relish for
fresh beef.

Some of these letters had already been answered and
others would be along the route, mailed as opportunity
presented, or kept until the expedition reached Tampa,
which would be some time in March, as they meant to
knock around in Charlotte Harbor for a time.

Gradually they ceased talking, and drew near the
place where the canoes had been left, in silence.
CHAPTER XXXIV.
A BLACK THIEF IN THE NIGHT.

2. IST, Rolly!”
} “ What’s the matter?” asked
Roland, as he felt the other’s
hand clutch his arm, bringing
both to a standstill.

“Look there! I saw a
crouching figure down by the
water near our boats.”

“Aman?”

“Tthink so, although it might have been
adog. In this light one could not swear to
either, you know.”

f ‘Jove! It may be a thief. Let’s _give
a whoop and rush forward.”

“Hold on. That isn’t my way of doing it.”

‘ Give your orders then and I’ll assist,” whispered
Rolly cheerfully, for he was always ready to fall in
with whatever Andy proposed.

“Then, first of all, drop this fruit in a pile atthe
foot of a tree.”

** Done.” :

‘* Now, let us crawl forward and surprise the would-
be thief.”

“Hold on! Are you armed?”

“No. We will use nothing beyond this cudgel, I
reckon, You have a revolver, Rolly.”



232 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

“* Yes, here it is.”

“Well, be careful how you use it. I am not in
favor of shedding even a thief’s blood. We can ac-
complish more by a surprise and two of us ought to
be enough to down one.’’

‘*There may be more of them.”

“You are armed, and in an emergency we would be ©
right to defénd our property, no matter at what cost.
Come on.”’

This little dialogue had not taken many seconds
and they were then ready for business. Like two great
cats they crept down to the water’s edge and out
upon the dock.

Their boats were drawn alongside the framework
and upon the shore, where they were secured also so
that no sudden wave could bear them away. As they
drew close to the spot they strained their eyes to see.
They were enabled to make out a dark figure outlined
against the white canvas of the canoe hatch.

This removed all question as to the intruder being
a human being. It was a man and a black one at
that, for they heard him mutter something because
in his haste he could not readily unbutton the canvas
hatch and get at the coveted articles beneath.

Andy had put himself a little ahead so that the
first action must come from him. He had crept for-
ward until within five feet of the spot where the
would-be robber stood, and crouching, the young
Bucktail cruiser awaited a favorable opportunity to
get in his work.

This was not long in coming. The black thief had
by dint of hard work managed to unbutton the hatch
A BLACK THIEF IN THE NIGHT, 2338

with his clumsy fingers, and uttering alow exclama-
tion of satisfaction at the prospect before him, he bent °
over the gunwale the better to get at what had been
stowed away under the deck, not having noticed the
little hatch forward, which wag secured by a tiny
brass padlock and undoubtedly covered the more
valuable portion of the cargo.

Now was Andy’s time and he was quick to take
advantage of it. Though hardly more than a boy in
years, he possessed a remarkably sturdy frame and
was as bold as he was muscular.

When he made his sudden leap he did not judge
wrongly, but landed fair and square upon the back of
the negro. His first act was to pinion the fellow’s
arms to his sides.

The man started up filled with rage and astonish-
ment. He was almost a giant in stature, and finding
his arms pinioned, he struggled to break loose. Had
he been able to have accomplished this, woe unte Andy,
for he would have been as clay in the potter’s hands.

Where was Roland? He had halted just long
enough to pick up the cudgel Andrew had dropped
when he made his mad plunge forward, and with this
in one hand and his revolver in the other, he sprang
to his comrade’s assistance. There was a flash in his
eye. His fighting blood was up and Roland could
hold his own with most comers when once under ex-
citement.

He saw a head and whacked it vigorously, knowing
that it did not belong to Andrew. Cries of pain rang
out, but Roland did not cease. Rather he renewed
his assault with more activity than before.
234 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

**Hold on! You've floored him, Rolly,’ said Andy.
as the thief sank down.

« Are you unhurt?’

“Yes, yes.”

‘Good! Now let’s see about this fellow.”

“You simply cracked him on the skull and he
dropped instanter. He'll be all right in the course
of a short time.”’

- Better tie him up.”

“Good. Get me a piece of rope. Meanwhile, I'll

put this stick through his arms and hold him on his
_ face.”

Rolly found a piece of rope—he knew just where to
look for anything about the canoe—and the negro
thief’s arms were tied behind him. He already
showed signs of returning consciousness.

«Well, here’s a mess. What are we going to do?”

“He'll never forgive that blow.”

“Not much. I’ve heard of people having a white
elephant on their hands—we’ve got a black one sure.
T see only one thing to do.”

‘*What’s that?”

“Raise an alarm. Help will come this way, and we
can hand him over to those who will see that he is prop-
erly cared for.”

“Good! Wait until I get my trumpet. Now, do
you blow like Gabriel while I send off all the barrels
of my little revolver. So, all together now.”

Such a racket as arose! It was like Bedlam let
loose. The trumpet alone was enough to arouse the
famous Seven Sleepers, let alone the banging of the
A BLACK THIEF IN THE NIGHT. 235

revolver. These sounds appeared much worse coming
in the dead of night.

The result was soon apparent. People were heard
calling to one another, and then they began to run to-
wards the landing, as though realizing that the racket
proceeded from the canoe cruisers. It was like a cow-
boy serenade, and they were not certain whether the
noise was a joke or meant something in a serious way.

“This way, good people,” sung out Andy.

Soon quite a number had gathered around. The
story was quickly told. Lights were produced, Ro-
land securing the lantern out of his boat. Then the
prisoner was recognized.

“Black Cudjo!’’ ejaculated one.

‘« Just as sure as you live,’’ said another.

“Caught at last.’

«* And at his old tricks.”

The boys realized that they had made a ee cap-
ture, and that the prisoner was an old offender.

Black Cudjo had once been a slave. Freedom had
brought out all the ugly traits in his nature which th
Overseer’s lash had previously kept down. He killed
.a fellow black in Georgia some years back and fied the
State. Had it been a white man he would have paid
the penalty long since.

Down in lower Florida he soon made a name for him-
self as an ugly character, and finally had to fly from
the haunts of men, taking up his abode in the swamps.
His life was forfeited, and he would have been shot on
sight by many of the settlers against whom he had
done evil things.

They were royally glad to get hold of him now, as a
236 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

long list of crimes lay at his door. There were posi.
tive assurances that he would trouble the young cruis-
-ers no more. So they handed the black thief over to
the proper authorities of Myers, for merited punish-
ment.

Later on they heard that he had attempted to make
his escape, almost strangling a guard, and had been
riddled with bullets, thus bringing to a sudden and
awful end a life that had been but one evil orgie.

Neither of the boys slept well that night, for dreams
troubled them. Once Roland imagined he heard foot-
steps on the shore, and even got up to look out. They
had anchored out in the stream, and were once more
swinging with the gentle tide, a fact that both appre-
ciated, as it made them feel as though they had met an
old friend.

He could see the shore plainly, but after watching
it for some little time, discovered no signs of any one.
Believing he had been dreaming, he lay down once
more and slept.

Both boys were glad to see the light of day appear,
however, and eagerly prepared to leave a spot where
the pleasant associations had been so rudely disturbed.
They cooked their breakfast and just as the sun was
putting in an appearance, pulled up anchor, starting
down the river toward the Gulf.
CHAPTER XXXvV.

THE ANGLER’S PARADISE.

AD they left their troubles behind
them? Hardly so. In a long
cruise of this sort, where each
man has to be skipper, cook and
crew, there must continually arise

new hardships and difficulties which
can only be met and overcome as they
appear.

Plain sailing may arouse false hopes
that the dangers are past, but the
cautious cruiser will always be on the
alert for danger. ,

They sailed down the broad river. The breeze was
almost dead ahead, but it was easy to tack here where
they had so muchroom. One long leg and a short
one took them a mile on their way. The same maneu-
vre was repeated all through the morning.

Near noon they paddled into a cove and had lunch.
The wind had died out completely, so that they might
as well be here until they could see what was coming.

Here they found a house, a regular log cabin with a
thatched roof, nestling under the live oaks that trailed
the Spanish moss streamers over it. No one seemed
to be at home, but presently a German woman and a
small boy appeared, puiiing a heavy boat out of the
stream, as though they expected the alligators to


238 - PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

make way withit if left there. From the woman the
canoe cruisers secured some oranges and also infor-
mation regarding the river.

It was after three o’clock when a few catspaws upon
the water indicated a breeze. Roland glanced around
him and said :

“ Due south, partner.”

“Good. You’re right, Rolly, and I believe it will
be a fine sailing breeze too.’’

In ashort time the surface of the river was dimpled
with the breeze, and it filled their sails, so that they
_ sped down stream at a lively rate.

Punta Rassa was reached at four o’clock. They
halted here but a few minutes to speak to the tele-
graph operator and get a little information with re-
gard to the fishing.

This being a famous spot, our boys meant to stop
over and obtain some fishing. Here the noble tarpon
is caught. All the famous scores by W. H. Wood, of
New York, and other anglers have been made at this
place.

Sanabel Island is the scene of much piscatorial
sport. Pine Island is being built up at the lower ex-
tremity, St. James City being the name of the place,
and the San Carlos the most excellent hotel. Even
when the boys were there this place was beginning to
boom, and to-day it promises to become the deep
water city of the Gulf coast.

Our boys had their plans arranged.

They would go over to Sanabel Island and camp
there. If a suitable place could not be found, there






THE CANOE CRUISERS OFF PUNTA RASSA.
THE ANGLER’S PARADISE.- 941

remained the canoes, and worse sleeping places than
these might be had.

So they left the wharf at Punta Rassa and were soon
speeding across the broad stretch of water that lay
between the shore and Sanabel Island. How good it
was to be stretching out over salt water again. The
boys were dreadfully tickled over the prospects, and
could hardly restrain their feelings from bubbling over.

After a brisk run the island was reached. They
coasted alcng for some little distance and finding the
proper place, made a landing.

Here their camp would be located. They had no
particular fault to find with the location, although
it was not as desirable as some of their former
camping grounds. With a spring near by it would
have been fine, but. alas, these common finds in all
Northern States are few and far between down in
Florida. Between almost every hill up North we find
clear gurgling brooks that quench one’s thirst, but
down inthe Pelican State the springs can easily be
counted.

One thing made life miserable for them here, and
this was the mosquitoes. They were indeed fierce,
and gave them little rest.

Generally speaking, the keys along the Gulf coast
are poor places for camping, being sandy or else mud
flats, and literally swarming with myriads of gnats,
and ‘‘skeeters.’’? The safest course is to sleep on board
the boat, anchored half way between the keys and the
main shore.

They managed to spend a few days here comfort-
ably, all but this one thing being well, and during
9490 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

this time they succeeded in capturing all the fish
they wanted.

That evening while Andy arranged the camp, a par-
ticular fancy of his and one Roland let him indulge in
at all times—his companion took his rod, found some
fiddler crabs, and selecting a spot near some rocks,
proceeded to fish.

Talk about an angler having patience—it is not
often tried in Florida. Sheepshead came in about one
in every two minutes. Some he threw back and
others he kept. It took buta short time for him to
secure all they could possibly use, and after that he
returned them to the water as fast as caught.

Finally he got tired of the sport, and went back to
Andrew. By this time the latter had made things
pretty snug, and before many minutes passed by, the
sheepshead were sizzling in the pan.

They were a royal feast to the boys. Both of them
had always been particularly fond of fish, and since
leaving the Gulf at the Ten Thousand Islands their op-
portunities for indulging in a feast of this sort had been
few and far between.

They talked of the oysters they would soon have.
These delicious bivalves can be found in unlimited
quantities along nearly the whole coast of Florida, and
one-need never go hungry there if fond of them.

The boys soon found they had their hands full in
order to fight the insect pests that swarmed about. A
smudge was used and with this a little comfort ob-
tained. They did not free themselves from the insects
entirely, however, until they crawled under the cheese
cloth bar for the night.
THE ANGLER’S PARADISE. 943

On the following morning they arranged the camp
to suit them a little better, and then went into the fish-
ing business.

With the cast-net some mullet were captured and
baiting with one of them cut in half, lengthwise, Ro-
land paddled to where he had been directed by the tel-
egraph operator.

Then he set to work. The tarpon season is best in
March and April. Few were yet to be seen this far
north. Several hours passed away without Roland
having a strike. He could have caught other fish
easily, but he was after tarpon, that silver vaulter of
the Gulf, and he meant to get him.

Patience is generally rewarded. He had a strike
after a time. Roland showed no excitement but gave
line and then cut loose from his anchor to which he had
attached a buoy as on the other occasion.

It was much a repetition of the former business. He
was deliberate in his movements, and when the proper
time came he struck home with just the right vim.

Then came the usual tussle. He played that fish
fifteen minutes and then had him break loose. This
was aggravating. Some men. would have shown tem-
per, but Roland, after a blank look of surprise, laughed.

“Go it, old leaper. You’ve earned your freedom,
and I wish you joy with it. I’m sure he has that hook
in his jaw yet by the way he keeps on leaping. I had
a suspicion about that chain just above the knob, and—
yes, it broke there sure enough. Well, better luck
next time, that’s all.”

Philosophically he took out another hook and chain,
securing them to his line. Then he set to work again.
944. PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

_ This time he did not have to wait so long, as in ten

minutes he was able to see his line begin to move
steadily away from him, and had to cut loose from his
anchor.

As before he sunk the steel barb in the tarpon’s jaw
just at the proper time, when the line ceased moving
out. Then began the exercises again, the wild dashes,
frantic leaps and terrific plunges.

Talk about excitement, what could equal an hour’s
tussle with a tarpon weighing as much as a man, and
powerful at that? The best salmon that ever pulled
line could not do better. There is no sulking about
the tarpon either. He fights from the word “go,”
and never ceases the wild struggle for life and libertiy
until the gaff is sunk deep in his silver-plated side.

Roland was satisfied when he had made this capture.
The fish was larger than his other capture, and when
Andrew measured it he declared it must weigh upward
of a hundred and fifty pounds.

Andy had meanwhile been seeking other sport. He
showed his comrade a nice little pile of oysters that
had been discovered and secured after some labor.
They feasted upon the bivalves, having them roasted,
fried, and raw until tired of them.

Towards evening the indefatigable Roland tried his
flies. He had poor success, and only succeeded in get-
ting two fish, as they did not seem to be rising freely.

Later on he took the spear and jack-light. This lat-
ter was a Ferguson lantern, having a peculiar reflector
made for night fishing, as the light would be thrown
deep down in the water.

With this he set out. Having to manage both light
THE ANGLER’S PARADISE. 245

and spear himself he was not so successful as he would
otherwise have been, but for all that he managed to
strike a number of good fish.

Several times he saw sting rays, but was too wise to
send the spear into them, knowing the chances would
be that he might lose the spear and perhaps get in
trouble himself, for to overturn the canoe in these
waters is a dangerous piece of business. He saw more
than one shark cruising around as if eager for a meal,
though they steered clear of the boat.

When he was satisfied with prowling along the shores
and picking up crevalle and sheepshead that had come
in to feed on the flood tide, he paddled along to where
the light of the camp-fire threw outa ruddy gleam over
the water. Andy had meanwhile got out the shark
tackle and was waiting for a bite when Roland arrived,
lying back and smoking to keep the insects at bay.


CHAPTER XXXVI.

SHARK FISHING.

HAT luck, Rolly ?”

“The very best. I’ve had
a good time and got all the
fish I want. Who could say
more?”

«« Then perhaps you’ll help
me land this fellow pres.
ently.”’

‘*Hello! got a bite? ”’

Andy nodded toward the line which was slowly moving
away. A shark had found the bait and was making
off with it.

‘* Where’s your snubbing post?”

“This tree on theright. I’ve carried the lin wround
it you see. Oh! he moves quickly now.”

“Yes. J reckon the steel stuck him.”

“Then here goes.’’

Andrew got up. His apparent laziness was to be
seen no more. From his eyes flashed the light of reso-
lution, while his frame took on the lithe character of.
the tiger. Quickly he stepped to the tree in question,
and which he meant to use in snubbing the hooked
monster.


SHARK FISHING. 947

One glance he gave around to see that the rope was
in order. Everything seemed to beallright. So with
a strong pull he sent the hook in far above the barb.
Instantly the performance began. It was no child’s
play. :

The rope flew through his fingers rapidly, as the
shark made for deep water upon feeling the steel.
Andrew could never have held it. Had he attempted
to do so by main strength, he would have been dragged
into the Gulf.

Roland knew his share of the work, and picking up
the rope he awaited the shock. Andy let go, and pres-
ently his companion’s chance came, but he had the
turn around the tree to help him. With this assistance
he was enabled to bring the marine monster to a sud-
den stop, although it took about every atom of
strength he possessed.

Back and forth they played the game, at times let-
ting him go a little, when he pulled too hard, lest he
might tear the hook out, and again taking in the line
as he headed toward shore.

He wasatoughcustomer. They hadallthey wanted
to do in handling him, and finally felt relieved when
he began to come in like a stone, knowing he was
played out.

When finally he was brought into shoal water Andy
snatched up the rifle, and with a single shot finished
him.

Upon drawing the shark out upon the little beach,
they found he was beyond the usual size and of a-par-
ticularly rare species along the coast, being a spotted
or leopard shark.
248 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

These creatures are the most dreaded among the
whole shark family, as they are always man-eaters,
and will cut a swimming sailor in two, black or white,
with one snap of their jaws.

The boys measured the great sea-pirate, guessed at
his weight, and then succeeded in extracting some
teeth, although not without difficulty. These latter
they marked and put away as mementoes of the oc-
asion.

This was quite enough sport for one evening. As
they did not want the body of the dead shark to re-
main on shore for fear that the odor of it might drive
them out of their camp, they set it afloat, and towed
it out a little distance.

Other sharks would soon make way with it, and this
was just what the boys wanted. They sat about the
camp-fire for a time, fighting the insect pests. Of
course their talk was pretty much about home. What
were their friends doing about this time? Perhaps
half buried in snow and with the thermometer at zero.
When they considered this fact, our boys were satis-
fied with whatever came to them.

“ Listen!’ said Rolly, just when they were about
ready to retire to bed.

A great splashing could be heard out upon the
water. Something was evidently going on.

‘* The sharks are feasting upon the body of the fellow
we killed,”? said Andy.

“ Well, I’m glad it isn’t me out there.”

‘“« There wouldn’t be much of you left, that’s a fact.’’

“Speaking of sharks, Andy, you remember up in
our town how that Yankee showman kept a shark on


























































































































The Yankee’s wonderful white whale changing base by moonlight.

SHARK FISHING. s ad1

exhibition at his aquarium two weeks and had every-
body come to see the wonderful white whale.’”’

Andrew laughed.

«Yes, poor fools; none of ’em had ever seen a
shark, but the story got out, and the fraud had to
move out ina hurry. I saw them carry the thing out
by moonlight. The whole affair went in a cart. But
the Yankee made the shekels out of it. Now to bed.”

Once under the bar their troubles were over so far
as the mosquitoes were concerned. There was nothing
to keep them awake, and they slept soundly, only
arousing at dawn.

Another day was before them, to be put in at fishing.
They made up their minds that on the morrow, if the
weather was favorable, they would break camp and
begin their trip up through Charlotte Harbor.

Tiring of the fishing, Rcland after lunch took the

little Parker and went after some bay birds he had
noticed in the morning.
- Knowing their habits well, he looked for them on
the mud flats. They were not very plenty, nothing
like they found them later, but Roland picked one up
here and another there until upon heading his canoe
for camp he had quite a display, which included seven
varieties.

They were delicious when delicately prowned, and
the boys never tired of eating them. There were few
times when bay birds and oysters were not on their
bill of fare some time during the day. Atthe North
such delicacies would have cost them a small fortune,
while in this land of plenty they were to be had for the
mere picking up, and the best in the world at that.
252 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

Andrew had not been idle. During the lunch hour
he had made some little improvements on his boat.
Such things were continually needed, for from time to
time a cruiser who is up to his business sees the need
of certain little things which a skillful hand can make,
and he straightway proceeds to get them in place. A
slovenly cruiser is content to let things go as he finds
them.

After Roland left on his little shoot, Andy lolled
around camp for a time, amusing himself with the pet
’coon, and watching some impudent fish-crows that
were awaiting an opportunity to make a raid on
the camp.

An eagle was soaring aloft watching a couple of
fish-hawks perched in a dead tree, ready to secure his
plunder at their expense. Andy took the rifle and
waited, intending to attempt a shot or two if the
chance came. He had not long to wait.

One of the hawks made a sudden swoop downward,
struck the water with a plash, and immediately arose
bearing a fat mullet in its talons.

The eagle at once dropped like a rock and began to
follow the hawk, which ascended higher and higher in
circles. One would think the hawk would learn by
experience that escape was impossible, and drop the
fish at once, but not so.

Finally when far up in the air the hawk was pressed
so closely that it dropped the mullet. Theo king of the
air descended like a rock. There was a rushing sound,
and within twenty feet of the water’s surface the great
wings of the eagle were suddenly expanded, and Andy
saw that the bird had the fish in its talons.
SHARK FISHING. 253

As it began to fly off with lazy strokes of its wings,
the canoe cruiser brought his Colt’s lighting repeater
to bear. It was a pretty shot, and as the gun sounded
the eagle fell into the water. There was life in him
yet, and Andy, mounting his canoe, pushed out to
where he struggled.

It was found that the eagle only had a broken wing.
After quite a little fight Andy managed to secure his
quarry. The eagle was taken alive to the shore, and
Andy spent some time in bandaging its broken wing.
When this was finally accomplished there could be no
doubt but that the bird would live and do well.

How he was to tame it and carry such an additional
burden was a point to be settled in the future; but
Andy had a way of overcoming difficulties that won
him many a victory, and he was pretty sure to come
out all right in the end, and as his young eagle had
died he thought to fill its place.

By this time it was almost evening, and as Roland
put in an appearance with his game there was work to
be done in preparing supper.

Their last night on the island was not as restful as
the others. The wind blew hard and it seemed as
though they could not keep out the minute insect
pests. Roland declared they were blown through the
cheese cloth by the wind.

At any rate the boys tossed about a good deal and
more than once sat up. About half way between mid-
night and morning Roland believed a wild-cat was
prowling around the camp, and picking up a gun he
crept stealthily out of the tent. The moon shone and
the trees rustled in the breeze quite noisily. Upon the
254 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

western shore of the island the waves beat with a
monotonous sound.

Glancing around, the young adventurer could not see
anything of the wild-cat at first, but he remained very
ouiet and waited. After a time a movement caught
his eyes, and presently the nocturnal intruder ap-
peared, creeping toward the tin pans back of the fire-
place, as though attracted by the odor of food. With
a good shot Roland bowled him over and then retired
to rest again.


CHAPTER XXXVII.

IN CHARLOTTE HARBOR.

2 HE breeze was fair
when they left Sanabel
Island and headed north, but
Andy cast more than one
anxious glance aloft. He saw
that the clouds were moving
in a direction exactly oppo-
site to that taken by them-
selves, and this was a pretty
good indication that the wind
would soon whip around to the same quarter.

This would put it dead ahead and they must beat to
windward. An ugly cross sea came with the new
wind and made it still harder. They passed several
turtlers and spongers putting into the bay, and saluted
each with a blast upon the trumpets that brought
forth a waving of headgear and faint cheers.

St. James City, then a new place, was passed on the
long leg. They were now abreast off Pine Island, mak-
ing fair headway, although it was decidedly wet work.

They kept it up until both tired of the work. This
was about three in the afternoon,and really the wind and
waves had become so high that it was dangerous for
such miniature boats to attempt further navigation. So
they landed on Pine Island and got ready for the night.


256 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

At dusk they were visited by a settler who had seen
the little boats land. He was a native of Philadelphia,
and seemed tickled when he heard they were from the
same State. Little things such as this go a great way
with people who are in a foreign land.

He came over again early in the morning and
brought them some fruit, which was quite acceptable.
During the night the wind increased until it actually
roared, and yet so suddenly did it die out that when
morning came the Gulf was almost like a mirror, save
for some far-off indications of new wind.

They hoped this might prove favorable to their pro-
gress when it came, for two days of beating would
prove too much for their composure. Luck favored
them, for the breeze came out of the east, working
around to southeast, and ere long they were speeding
along,again. It grew so strong finally that the dandy
was stowed, and a reef taken in the mainsail.

Even under these circumstances they tore along fu-
riously. As they were in water that was full of bars
and oyster shoals, this kind of work, though exciting,
was rather dangerous, and Andy finally clewed his
sail up so that only a small portion of it bagged in the
wind, and then they sped on under bare poles, so to
speak.

Good progress was made during thisday. Pine Is-
land was left behind. Soon their course shifted north
to a point nearly east. They were upon the outskirts
of Charlotte Harbor.

This isa great body of water, and with the land
that encloses it all but the Gulf side, probably presents
the finest field for the sportsman of any in the country
IN CHARLOTTE HARBOR. 257

Au manner of fishing can be obtained here together
with fine oysters. Game is abundant along the shore,
from bay birds up to turkey, deer and bear. Turtles
are to be had in season of laying eggs, and a favorite
amusement is to hunt for them by torchlight, turning
them over when found, as once upon their backs they
cannot get back, and therefore may be picked up when
wanted.

With the streams flowing into it Charlotte Harbor
presents a magnificent field for the ambitious canoeist.
One can pierce the heart of the whole country by as-
cending the Peace or Myaka rivers, while the sound
itself, being marked by islands, is not a dangerous
cruising ground for the canoeist who knows his
business

They ran for the mainland to camp, and found the
spot they wanted about five o’clock in the afternoon.
It was a lovely place, quite picturesque, with the fes-
toons of moss swinging in the breeze.

Birds were not as plenty as they had seen them in
the interior, for the feather hunter has made regular
trips around Charlotte Harbor and wherever he ap-
pears feathered life thins out. There were enough of
the ditferent species to make it seem natural.

Our boys had by this time gotten things down to
such asystem that time was saved and each knew ex-
actly what to do. They went about their duties
methodically, and there was always a cheerful alacrity
in what they did that went far toward lightening the
business.

Around the fire they sang the old songs on this night
and appeared particularly jolly. Andrew, happening
258 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

to look out about nine o’clock, saw a little vessel com.
ing in. Their camp fire was evidently the attraction.
The sharpie rounded to, there was a rattling of blocks,
the sail came down, and an anchor was hove over-
board.

Then the solitary person on board drew on a pair of
long rubber boots, jumped overboard in two feet of
water and waded ashore. He proved to bea collector
of alligator skins, and had believed this to be a camp
of hunters where he would make a purchase.

Alligator Ferguson, as he called himself, proved to
be an amusing and unique character. He interested
the boys through the whole evening. and they did not
retire until late, as he told them man y strange things
about the reptiles he dealt in. He went aboard the
Sally Ann when they grew tired, and at morning
yelled out an adieu as they were cooking breakfast,
being in a hurry to reach a certain point where he had
agreed to meet men engaged in killing alligators.

Our boys took their toll of oysters, game and fish as
they advanced up the harbor. They had a glorious
time of it altogether, and although now and then some
little trouble might arise, their difficulty was met and
conquered with that same unflinching perseverance
that had marked their previous course.

The past had been well written up in their log-books,
and when the cruise was over they would be pleased to
glance over the record in order to see what had been
accomplished. How vividly each scene would rise in
memory, and every detail be brought out. Once again
they would be battling with the storm in their frail
but seaworthy little craft, and working like heroes to
IN CHARLOTTE HARBOR. 259

gain the coveted harbor. The hunt, the capture of a
great fish, the Seminole village—all the varied inci-
dents of their eventful cruise would rise before them as
they lived over again this life in Florida, while perhaps
the snow drifted outside, and the bleak north wind
howled around the corners of their Pennsylvania
homes.

Ah! who wouldn’t keep a log, to tell in days to come
all that took place when cruising and camping, and
live over the glorious days and nights spent in that
summer land perpetual—fair Florida ?


CHAPTER XXXVIII.
THE LAST CAMP-FIRE.

T would require another volume to tell
all that happened to our boysin Char-
lotte Harbor and along the
coast. Their destination was
Cedar Keys, and they had
timed their passage so well
; that wishing to reach the
[== Ng NS island city of lead pencil
We! fame on the first of May,
Ny they found themselves at
Homasassa on the 28th of April.

We can merely make mention of a few things that
occurred during the two months spent in paddling and
sailing up the coast from Sanabel Island near Punta
Rassa to this the scene of their last cam p-fire during
the memorable cruise.

In Charlotte Harbor they saw a school of devil fish
that had wandered in here from the Gulf, and one of
them getting in shoal water the boys ‘determined to
kill it. This they finally accomplished with the rifle.
The usual exhilirating ride, towed by a devil fish, was
missing, but as such a thing would have been danger-
ous in connection with their frail canoes, they did not
attempt it.

They went up the Peace River a short distance, but
finding that it was only a repetition of what they had


THE LAST CAMP-FIRE. 961

already passed through, they came out of it and
sought salt water again. Here and there they camped
to hunt and fish. Sometimes they had poor luck, but
generaily it was most remarkable the catch they
made. Accidents befel them too. Once Roland went
out fishing at a certain point, was swept out onto the
Gulf by a sudden furious land breeze, and he spent the
whole of the next night battling with wind and wave.

It was an adventure he would remember to his dying
day. Providence was kind to him, and the wind turn-
ing to south toward morning he was enabled to raise
his dandy sail forward and work in toward land. This
he finally reached in the afternoon but at a point far
north of where their camp had been. It was two days
before he found Andy, and that worthy having given
up his friend as lost was completely overcome with joy
at seeing him.

Both boys had grown stouter and were in much
better health than when they landed at Key West to
begin the crnise. It needed only a glance at their
sturdy forms and bronzed faces to speak volumes for
what a winter passed in the open air of southern Flor-
ida wiil do for any one threatened or suffering with
nervous disease, dyspepsia or anything of the sort.

The bracing air, plain food, healthy exercise and life
on the water develop an astounding appetite that can
hardly be appeased. No medicine will begin to do a
dyspeptic one half the good such a vacation accom-
plishes, be it in Florida during the winter or through
Maine in summer.

In Little Gasparilla Pass they met a canoeist cruis-
ing south in his own boat, a gentleman known to the
262 PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

public under the name of “ Tarpon.”? Captain Kendall
made the long trip with Dr. Neide from Lake George,
up in the Adirondacks, down the Ohio and Mississippi
Rivers and along the Gulf te Pensacola, Florida. His
latest achievement has been to leave Tampa, alone in
a canvas canoe of his own make, and paddle around the
whole peninsula of Florida, reaching St. Augustine in
safety, and leaving there to skirt north along the sea-
board heading for New York.

Few men would have the nerve to attempt such a
task, and the grit to carry it out alone. Bishop, the
father of canoeing in this country, would have been
equal to it, as his many long voyages testified.

In Tampa bay the boys had a littleadventure with
pirates who swooped down on them in a sharpie. They
discovered, however, that they had to deal with deter-
mined youths, and found the boys ready for them guns
inhand. Andy gave.them just ten seconds to sheer off,
declaring that he would fill them full of buckshot un-
less they obeyed, while Roland fired the Colt’s repeater
seven or eight times rapidly in order to let them see
what a battery they had. The pirates concluded that
they had caught a Tartar, and that discretion was the
better part of valor, so they swore a great deal but
bore away, evidently believing in the old axiom that
‘he who fights and runs away, may live to fight an-
other day.”’

At Tarpon Springs our canoeists met a number of
gentlemen sportsmen, and some ladies. All were great-
ly interested in their voyage, and for the time being
they were the heroes of the place. The tarpon fishing
is nothing here in comparison with that off Punta
THE LAST CAMP-FIRE. 263

Rassa, though the sport around this region is very fine,
everything considered. Other things happened to
them from day to day, and at night were duly record-
ed in their logs.

Thus they had come to their last camp-fire, and both
boys were very quiet on this night. Somehow neither
could bear to speak. They were going to the loved
ones at home, and yet it was sad to wrench themselves
away from this scene which they had grown to love.

Never before had the sky seemed as blue as at this
sunset, and the Gulf gleamed in the sun’s setting rays
like a sea of gold. Birds flew overhead, mullet leaped
and splashed, chased by their nimble enemies—all these
things they were quitting now, perhaps forever.

No wonder they were sad. Four months had pass-
ed, and it is doubtful whether two canoeists ever before
had an equal amount of pleasure crowded into such a
space of time. Fair Florida was decked in flowers.
The woods were full of perfume. It greeted one at every
turn, and thousands of blossoms could be seen in any
direction.

Slowly the shades of night closed up, drawing the
sable curtains over the scene. It was over, and they
had made their last camp-fire of the cruise.

In the morning they started for Cedar Keys with a
fair wind, sleeping that night in the boats back of a
friendly key. Before nightfall on the second day
they reached their destination.

The long cruise was over.

Two days later the boats were shipped North, and
our friends went on the same train. They parted from
Florida with keenest regrets. Many were the discom-
964. PADDLING IN FLORIDA.

forts they had suffered there, but somehow the climate,
vegetation and life fascinated them, and memory
would often take them back to the scenes of their
adventure.

Both were firmly resolved upon one thing in leaving
the land of tropical sunshine and oranges, and this
was that they would be there again on the succeeding
winter if circumstances allowed of it. There we will
bid them adieu !



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ast of the Barons. By Bulwer-
Lytton. ‘
Last of the Mohicans. By James
Fenimore Cooper.
Lena Rivers, By Mary J.
Holmes.



Life of Christ. By Frederic W.
Farrar.

Light of Asia, The. By Sir Hd-
win Arnold.

Light That Failed, The. By
Rudyard Kipling.

Little Dorrit. By Charles Dick-
ens.

-Longfellow’s Poems. (Early.)

Lorna Doone. By R. D. Black-
more.

Louise de la Valliere. By Alex-
andre Dumas.

Love Me Little, Love Me Long,
By Charles Reade.

Lover or Friend? By Rosa N.
Carey.

Lucile. By Owen Meredith.

Maid of Sker. By R. D. Black-

more.
Makers of Florence.

By Mrs
Oliphant.
Makers of Venice. By Mrs.
Oliphant.
Man and Wife. By Wilkie Col-
lins.

Man in the Iron Mask. By Alex-
andre Dumas.

Marquis of Lossie. By George
Macdonald.

Martin Chuzzlewit. By Charles
Dickens.

Mary Anerley. By R. D. Black-
more.

Mary St. John.
Carey.

Master of Ballantrae, The. By
R. L. Stevenson.

Masterman Ready. By Captain
Marryat.

Meditations of Marcus Aurelius.
Translated by George Long.

Merle’s Crusade. By Rosa N.

By Rosa N.

Carey.

Micah Clarke. By A. Conan
Doyle.

Michael Strogoff. By Jules
Verne.

Middlemarch. By George Eliot.

Midshipman Easy. By Captain
Marryat.

Mill on the Floss. By George
Eliot.

Milton’s Poems. By John Mil-
ton.

Mine Own Pesple. By Rudyard
Kipling.

Molly Bawn. By ‘‘The Duch-

ess.’’

Monastery, The. By Sir Walter
Scott. i
Moonstone, The, By Wilkie

Collins.

Mosses from an Old Manse. By
Nathaniel Hawthorne.

Mysterious Island, The. By
Jules Verne.

Natural Law in the Spiritual
World. By Henry Drum-
mond.
BURT’S HOME LIBRARY-Continued. Price $1.00 per Copy.

Nellie’s Memories. By Rosa N.
Carey.

Newcomes, The. By William M.
Thackeray.

Nicholas Nickleby. By Charles
Dickens.

Ninety-Three. By Victor Hugo.

No Name. By Wilkie Collins.

Not Like Other Girls. By Rosa
N. Carey.

Odyssey, The. Pope’s Transla-
tion.

Old_Curiosity Shop. By Charles
Dickens.

Old Mam’selle’s Secret. By E.
Marlitt.

Old _ Mortality. By Sir Walter
Scott.

Old Myddleton’s Money. By
Mary Cecil Hay.

Charles

Oliver ‘Twist. By
Dickens.
Only a Word. By George Ebers.

Only the Governess. By Rosa
N. Carey.

On the Heights. By Berthold
Auerbach,

Origin of Species. By Charles
Darwin.

Other Worlds Than Ours. By
Richard Proctor. 2
Our Bessie. By Rosa N. Carey.
Our Mutual Friend. By Charles
Dickens.

Pair of Blue Eyes, A. By Thos.
Hardy.

Past and Present. By Thomas
Carlyle.

Pathfinder, The, By James Feni-
more Cooper.

Pendennis, By William M,
Thackeray.

Pere Goriot.
Balzac.

Peveril of the Peak. By Sir
Walter Scott.

Phantom Rickshaw, The. By
Rudyard Kipling.

Phra, the Phoenician, By Ed-
win L. Arnold.

Picciola. By X. B. Saintine.

By Honore de

Pickwick Papers. By Charles
Dickens.

Pilgrim’s Progress. By John
Bunyan.

Pilot, The. By James Fenimare
Cooper.

Pioneers, The. By James Feni-
more Cooper.

Pirate, The.
Scott.

Plain Tales from the Hulls, By
Rudyard Kipling.

Prairie, The. By Janies Teni-
more Cooper.

Pride and Prejudice. By Jane
Austen.

Prime Minister, The. By Ar-
thony Trollope, ~

Prince of the House of David.
By Rev. J. H. Ingraham,

By Sir Waiter



Princess of the Moor. By E.
Marlitt.
Princess of Thule, A. By Will-

iam Black.

Professor, The. By Charlotte
Bronte.

Prue and I. By George William
Curtis.

Queen Hortense. By Louisa
Muhlbach.

Queenie’s Whim. By Rosa N.
Carey.

Quentin Durward. By Sir Wal-
ter Scott.

Redgauntlet. By Sir Walter
Scott.

Red_ Rover. By James Fenimore
Cooper.

Reign of Law. By Duke of
Argyle.

Reveries of a Bachelor. By Ik
Marvel.

Rhoda Fleming. By George
Meredith.

Rienzi. By Bulwer-Lytton.

Robert Ord’s Atonement. By
Rosa N. Carey.

Robinson Crusoe.
Defoe,

Rob Roy. By Sir Walter Scott.

Romance of Two Warlds. By
Marie Corelli.

Romola. By George Eliot.

Rory O’More. By Samuel Lover.

Saint Michael. By E. Werner.

Schonberg-Cotta “Family. By
Mrs. Andrew Charles.

Sartor Resartus. By Thomes

Carlyle.

Scarlet Letter, The. By Na-
thaniel Hawthorne. ‘

Schopenhauer’s Essays. Trans-
lated by T. B. Saunders.

Scottish Chiefs. By Jane Porter.

Scott’s Poems. By Sir Walter
Scott.

Search for Basil Lyndhurst. By
Rosa N. Carey.

Second Wife, The. By E. Mar-
litt.

Seekers After God. By F. W.
Farrar,

Self-Help. By Samuel Smiles.

Sense and Sensibility. By Jane

Austen,

Sesame and Lilies. By John
Ruskin.

Seven Lamps of Architecture.
By John Ruskin.

Shadow of a Crime. By Hall
Caine.

Shadow of the Sword. By Rob-
ert Buchanan.

Shirley. By Charlotte Bronte.

Silas Marner. By George Elict.

Silence of Dean Maitland, By
Maxwell Grey,

Sin of Joost Avelingh. By
Maarten Maartens.

Sir Gibbie. By George, Mac-
donald.

By Daniel
BURT’S HOME LIBRARY—Continued. Price $1.00 per Copy.

Sketch Book, The. By Washing-
ton Irving.

Social Departure, A. By Sarah
Jeannette Duncan.

Soldiers, Three, etc. By Rud-
yard Kipling.

Son of Hagar, A. By Hall
Caine. -

Springhaven. By R. D. Biack-
more.

Spy, the. By James Fenimore
Cooper.

Story of an African Farm. By
Olive Schreiner.

Story of John G. Paton. Told
for Young Folks. By Rev.
James Paton.

Strathmore. By ‘‘Ouida.’’

St. Ronan’s Well. By Sir Wal-
ter Scott.

Study in Scarlet, A. By A,
Conan Doyle.

Surgeon’s Daughter, The. By
Sir Walter Scott.

Swiss Family Robinson, By
Jean Rudolph Wyss.

Tale of Two Cities. By Charles
Dickens.

Tales from Shakespeare. By
Charles and Mary Lamb.
Talisman, The. By Sir Walter

Scott.

Tanglewood Tales. By Na-
thaniel Hawthorne.

Tempest and Sunshine. By Mary
J. Holmes.
Tempest Tossed.

Tilton.

Ten Nights in a Barroom. By

T. S. Arthur.

By Theodore

Tennyson’s Poems. By Alfred
Tennyson.

Ten Years Later. By Alexandre
Dumas.

Terrible Temptation, A. By
Charles Reade.

Thaddeus of Warsaw. By Jane
Porter.

Thelma. By Marie Corelli.

Thirty Years’ War. By Fred-
erick Schiller,

Thousand Miles Up the Nile. By
Amelia B. Edwards.

Three Guardsmen, By Alexandre
Dumas.

Three Men in a Boat. By Jerome
K, Jerome.

Thrift. By Samuel Smiles.

Toilers of the Sea. By Victor
Hugo.

Tom Brown at Oxford. By

_,..ruomas Hughes.

Tom Brown’s School Days. By
Thomas Hughes.

Tom Burke of ‘Ours.’ By
Charles Lever.

Tom Cringle’s Log. By Michael
Scott.

Teur of the World in BRighty
Days, A. By Jules Verne,





Treasure Island.
Louis Stevenson.

Twenty Thousand Leagues Under
the Sea. By Jules Verne.

Twenty Years After. By Alex-
andre Dumas.

Twice Told Tales.
thaniel Hawthorne.

Two Admirals. By James Feni
more Cooper.

Two Years Before the Mast. By
R. H. Dana, Jr.

Uarda. By George Ebers.

Uncle Max. By Rosa N. Carey,

Uncle Tom’s Cabin. By Harriet
Beecher Stowe.

Undine and Other Tales. By De
La Motte Fouque.

Unity of Nature. By Duke of
Argyle.

Vanity Fair. By Wm. M. Thack-
eray.

Vendetta. By Marie Corelli.

Vicar of Wakefield. By Oliver
Goldsmith.

Vicomte de Bragelonne. By
Alexander Dumas.

Vilette. By Charlotte Bronte.

By Robert

By Na+

Virginians, The. By Wm. M,
Thackeray.

Water Babies, The. By Charles
Kingsley.

Water Witch, The. By James
Fenimore Cooper.

Waverley. By Sir Walter Scott.

Wee Wifie. By Rosa N. Carey.

Westward Ho! By Charles
Kingsley.

We Two. By Edna Lyall.

What’s Mine’s Mine. By George
MacDonald.

When a Man’s Single. By J. M.
Barrie.

White Company, The. By A.
Conan Doyle.

Whittier’s Poems. (Early).

Wide, Wide World. By Susan

Warner.

Widow Lerouge, The. By Emile
Gaboriau.

Window in Thrums. By J. M.
Barrie.

Wing and Wing. By James Fen-
imore Cooper.

Woman in White, The. By Wil-
kie Collins.

Won by Waiting. By Edna
Lyall.

Wonder Book, A, For Boys and
Girls. By Nathaniel Haw-
thorne.

Woodstock. By Sir Walter Scott.

Wooed and Married. By Rosa
N. Carey.

Wooing O’t. By Mrs. Alexander,
World Went Very Well Then,
The. By Walter Besant.
Wormwood. By Marie Corelli.
Wreck of the Grosvenor, The.
By W. Clark Russell.
Zenobia. By William Ware.
The Fairy Library

Aseries of books composed wholly of Fairy
«Stories, compiled and edited by various authors,
scomprising the fairy stories and folk tales of
various people. Each volume profusely illus-

rated and handsomely bound in cloth orna-
mented in gold and colors.

PRICE $1.00 PER VOLUME.








AS

SA

The Red Fairy Book, edited by
‘ANDREW LANG, with numerous illustra-
tions by H. J. Ford and Lancelot Speed,
cloth, price $1.00. Syocs

The Blue Fairy Book, edited by ANDREW Lane, with
numerous illustrations by H. J. Ford and @. P. Hood, cloth, price
$1.00.

The Green Fairy Book, edited by ANpREW Lana, with
numerous illustrations by H. J. Ford, cloth, price $1.00.

The Yellow Fairy Book, edited by ANDREW LANG, with
numerous illustrations by H. J. Ford, cloth, price $1.00.

Celtic Fairy Tales, edited by Josey Jacozs, profuseiy
illustrated by John D. Batten, cloth, price $1.00.

English Fairy Tales, edited by JosEPn Jacoss, profusely
illustrated by John D. Batten, cloth, price $1.00.

Indian Fairy Tales, edited by Joseru JAcoBs, profusely
illustrated by John D. Batten, cloth, price $1.00.

Andersen’s Fairy Tales, by Hans CHRISTIAN ANDER¢
SEN, with many illustrations by Cooper Edwards and others, cloth,
price $1.00.

Grimm’s Household Fairy Tates, by the Brorarre
GRimM, with many illustrations by Walter Grane and others,
‘eloth, price $1.00.

! Grimm’: Popular Fairy Tales, by the Broramrs
GRimM, with many illustrations by Walter Crane and otherr
cloth, price $1.00.









ne
For sale by all booksellers, or sent postpaid on receipt of price
bu the oublisher, 4, L, BURT, 97 Reade Street, New York,
A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS
For Young People

BY POPULAR WRITERS,
97-99-101 Reade Street, New York.



Bonnie Prince Charlie: A Tale of Fontenoy and Culloden. By
G. A. Henry. With 12 full-page Illustrations by GoRDON
Browne. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

The adventures of the son of a Scotch officer in French service.
The boy, brought up by a Glasgow bailie, is a rested for aiding a
Jacobite agent, escapes, is wrecked on the French coast, reaches
Paris, and serves with the French army at Dettingen. He kills
his father’s foe in a duel, and escaping to the coast, shares the
adventures of Prince Charlie, but finally settles happily in Scot-
land
_ Ronald, the hero, is very like the hero of ‘ Quentin Durward.’ The lad’s
Journey across France, and his hairbreadth escapes, make up as good a nar.

rative of the kind as we have ever read. For freshness of treatment and
variety of incident Mr. Henty has surpassed himself.*"—Spectator.

With Clive in India; or, the Beginnings of an Empire. By
G. A. Henry. With 12 full-page Tllustrations by GorRDoN
Browne. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

The period between the landing of Clive asa young writer in
India and the close of his career was critical and eventful in the
extreme. At its commencement the English were traders existing
on sufferance of the native princes. At its close they were masters
of Bengal and f the greater part of Southera India. The author
has given a full and accurate account of the events of that stirring
time, and battles and sieg-s follow each other in rapid succession,
while he combines with his narrative a tale of daring and adven-
ture, which gives a lifelike interest to the volume.

“He has taken a period of Indian history of the most vital importance,
and he has embroidered on the historical facts a story which of itself is deeply

interesting. Young people assuredly will be delighted with the volume."
Scotsman,

The Lion of the North: A Tale of Gustavus Adolphus and the
Wars of Religion. By G. A. Henry. With full-page Illus-
trations by Jomn Scuénpera. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

In this story Mr. Hen’'y gives the history of the first rart of the
Thirty Years’ War. The issue had its importance, which has ex-
tended to the present day, as it established religious freedom
in Germany. The army of the chivalrous king of Sweden was
largely composed of Scotchmen, and among these was the hero of
the story.

“ The tale is a clever and instructive piece of history, and as boys may be
trusted to read it conscientiously, they can hardly fail to be profited.”"—Times.
2 A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS.



The Dragon and the Raven; or, The Days of King Alfred. By
G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustrations by C. J. STANI-
LAND, R.I. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

In this story the author gives an acount of the fierce struggle
between Saxon and Dane for supremacy in England, and presents
a vivid picture of the misery and ruin to which the country was
reduced by the ravages of the sea-wolves. The hero, a young
Saxon thane, takes part in all the battles fought by King Alfred.
He is driven from his home, takes to the sea and resists the Danes
on their own element, and being pursued by them up the Seine,
is present at the long and desperate siege of Paris.

“Treated in a manner most attractive to the boyish reader."— Atheneum.

The Young Carthaginian: A Story of the Times of Hannibal.
By G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustrations by C. J. STANI-
LAND, R.I. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

Boys reading the history of the Punic Wars have seldom a keen
appreciation of the merits of the contest. That it was at first a
struggle for empire, and afterward for existence on the part of
Carthage, that Hannibal was a great and skillful general, that he
defeated the Romans at Trebia, Lake ‘Trasimenus, and Canne,
and all but took Rome, represents pretty nearly the sum total of
their knowledge. To let them know more about this momentous
struggle for the empire of the world Mr. Henty has written this
story, which not only gives in graphic style a brilliant descrip-
tion of a most interesting period of history, but is a tale of ex-
citing adventure sure to secure the interest of the reader.

“ Well constructed and vividly told. From first to last nothing stays the

interest of the narrative. It bears us along as on a]stream whose current
varies in direction, but never loses its force.”—Saturday Review.

In Freedom’s Cause: A Story of Wallace and Bruce. By G. A.
Henty. With full-page Illustrations by GorpoN BROWNE.
12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

In this story the author relates the stirring tale of the Scottish
War of Independence. The extraordinary valor and personal
prowess of Wallace and Bruce rival the deeds of the mythical
heroes of chivalry, and indeed at one time Wallace was ranked
with these legendary personages. The researches of modern
historians have shown, however, that he was a living, breathing
man—and avaliant champion. ‘The hero of the tale fought under
both Wallace and Bruce, and while the strictest historical accuracy
has been maintained with respect to public events, the work is
full of “hairbreadth ’scapes” and wild adventure.

“Tt is written in the author's best style. Full of the wildest and most re-
markable achievements, it is a tale of great interest, which a boy, once he has
begun it, will not willingly put on one side."—The Schoolmaster.
A. L. BURT'S PUBLICATIONS. 3

With Lee in Virginia: A Story of the American Civil War. By
G. A. Henry. With full-page Illustrations by GORDON
Browne. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

The story of a young Virginian planter, who, after bravely
proving his sympathy with the slaves of brutal masters, serves
with n» less courage and enthusiasm under Lee and Jackson
through the most exciting events of the struggle. He has many
hairbreadth escapes, is seve'al times wounded and twice taken
prisoner; but-his courage and readiness and, in two cases, the
devotion of a black servant and of a runaway slave whom he had
assisted, bring him safely through all difficulties.

& One of the best stories for lads which Mr. Henty has yet written. The
picture is full of life and color, and the stirring and romantic incidents are

skillfully blended with the personal interest and charm of the story.”-
Standard.

By England’s Aid; or, The Freeing of the Netherlands (1585-
1604). By G A. Henry. With full-page Illustrations by
ALFRED PRARSE, and Maps. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

The story of two English lads who go to Holland as pages in
the service of one of “the fighting Veres.” After many adven-
tures by sea and land, one of the lads finds himself on board a
Spanish ship at the time of the defeat of the Armada, and escapas
only to fall into the hands of the Corsairs. He is successful in
getting back to Spain under the protection of a wealthy merchant,
and regains his native country after the capture of Cadiz.

“Jt is an admirable book for youngsters. It overflows with stirring inci-
dent and exciting adventure, and the color of the era and of the scene are

‘finely reproduced. The illustrations add to its attractiveness.”—Boston
Gazette.

By Right of Conquest ; or, With Cortez in Mexico. By G@. A.
Henry. With full-page Illustrations by W. 8. Sracky, and
Two Maps. 12mo, cloth, price $1.50.

The conquest of Mexico by a small band of resolute men unde!
the magnificent leadership of Cortez is always rightly rankea
among the most romantic and daring exploits in history. With
this as the groundwork of his story Mr, Henty has interwoven the
adventures of an English youth, Roger Hawkshaw, the sole sur-
vivor of the good ship Swan, which had sailed from a Devon port
to challenge the mercantile supremacy 0° the Spaniards in the
New World. He is beset by many perils among the natives, but
is saved by his own judgment and strength, and by the devotion
of an Aztec princess. At last by a ruse he obtains the protection
of the Spaniards, and after the fall of Mexico he succeeds in re-
gaining his native shore, with a fortune and a charming Aztec
bride. ;

_“* By Right of Conquest’ is the nearest approach to a perfectly successfu]
aintovical tale that Mr. Henty has yet published.”"—dcademy.






4 A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS.



In the Reign of Terror: The Adventures of a Westminster Boy.
By G. A. Henry. With full-page Illustrations by J. Scuén-
BERG. 12m0, cloth, price $1.00.

Harry Sandwith, a Westminster boy, becomes a resident at the
chateau of a French marquis, and aft: r various adventures accom.
panies the family to Paris at the crisis of the Revolution. Im.
prisonment and death reduce their number, and the hero finds
himself beset by perils with the three young daughters of the
house in his charge. After hairbreadth escapes they reach Nan.
tes. There the pirls are condemned to death in the coffin- hips,
but are saved by the unfailing courage of their boy protector.

“Harry Sandwith, the Westminster boy, may fairly be said to beat Mr.
Henty’s record. His adventures will delight boys by the audacity and peril

they depict. . . . The story is one of Mr. Henty’s best.”—Saturday
Review.

With Wolfe in Canada; or, The Winning of a Continent. By
G, A. Henry. With full-page Illustrations by Gorpon
BROWNE. 12:mo, cloth, price $1.00.

In the present volume Mr. Henty gives an account of the strug-
gle between Britain and France for supremacy in the North
American continent, On the issue of this war depended not only
the destinies of North America, but to a large extent those of the
mother countries themselves. The fall of Quebec decided that
the Anglo-Saxon race should predominate in the New World;
that Britain, and not France, should take the lead among the
nations of Europe; and that English and American conimerce, the
English language, and English literature, should spread right
round the globe,

“It is not only a lesson in history as instructively as it is graphically told,

but also a deeply interesting and often thrilling tale of adventure and peril by
flood and field.”—Illustrated London News.

True to the Old Flag: A Tale of the American War of Inde-
pendence. By G, A. Henry. With full-page Illustrations by
Gorpon Browne. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

In this story the author has gone to the accounts of officers who
took part in the conflict, and lads will find thatin no war in which
American and British soldiers have been engaged did they behave
with greater courage and good conduct. he historical portion ot
the book being accompanied with numerous thrilling adventures
with the redskins on the shores of La e Huron, a story of exciting
interest is interwoven with the general narrative and carried
through the book. .

“Does justice to the pluck and determination of the British soldiers during
the unfortunate struggle against American emancipation. The son of an
American loyalist, who remains true to our flag, falls among the hostile red-
skins in that very Huron country which has been endeared to us by the ex-
ploits of Hawkeye and Chingachgook.”—The Times,
A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 5







The Lion of St. Mark: A Tale of Venice in the Fourteenth
Century. By G. A. Henry. With full-page Illustrations by
Gorpon BRowNE. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

A story of Venice at a period when her strength and splendor -
were put to the severest tests. The hero displays a fine sense and
manliness which carry him safely through an atmosphere of in-
trigue, crime, and bloodshed. He contributes largely to the vic-
tories of the Venetians at Porto d’Anzo and Chioggia, and finally
wins the hand of the daughter of one of the chief men of Venice

‘Every boy should read ‘The Lion of St. Mark.’ Mr. Henty has never pro

duced & story more delightful, more wholesome, or more vivacious.”—Satur. .
day Review.

A Final Reckoning: A Tale of Bush Life in Australia. By G. A.
Henry. With full-page Illustrations by W. B. WOLLEN.
12mo, cloth, price $1.00,

The hero, a young English lad. after rather a stormy boyhood,
emigrates to Australia, and gets employment as an officer in the
mounted police. A few years of active work on the frontier,
where he has many a brush with both natives and bushrangers,
gain him promotion to a captaincy, and he eventually settles
down to the peaceful life of a squatter.

‘“Mr. Henty has never published a more readable, a more carefully con-
structed, or a better written story than this.”—Spectator.

Under Drake’s Flag: A Tale of the Spanish Main. By G. A
Henry. With full-page Illustrations by GoRDON BROWNE.
12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

A story of the days when England and Spain struggled for the
supremacy of the sea. The heroes sail as lads with Drake in the
Pacific expedition, and in his great voyage of circumnavigation.
The historical portion of the story is absolutely to be relied upon,
but this will perhaps be less attractive than the great variety of
exciting adventure through which the young heroes pass in the
course of their voyages.

“* A book of adventure, where the hero meets with experience enough, one
would think, to turn his hair gray.’—Harper’s Monthly Magazine.

By Sheer Pluck: A Tale of the Ashanti War. By G. A. HENTY

With full-page Illustrations by GorDON Brownz. 12mo,

cloth, price $1.00. :

The author has woven, in a tale of thrilling interest, all the de-
tails of the Ashanti campaign, of which he was himself a witness.
His hero, after many exciting adventures in the interior, is de-
tained a prisoner by the king just before the outbreak of the war,
but escapes, and accompanies the English expedition on their
aiarch to Coomassie.

‘““Mr, Henty keeps up his reputation as a writer of boys’ stories. ‘By Sheer
Pluck ’ will be eagerly read.”— Atheneum.
t A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS.
eee,

By Pike and Dyke: A Tale of the Rise of the Dutch Republie
By G. A. Henry. With full-page Illustrations by MAYNARD
Brown, and 4 Maps. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

In this story Mr. Henty traces the adventures and brave deeds
of an English boy in the household of the ablest man of his age— '
William the Silent. Edward Martin, the son of an English sea-
captain, enters the service of the Prince as a volunteer, and is em.
ployed by him in many dangerous and responsible missions, in the
discharge of which he passes through the great sieges of the time.
He ultimately setties down as Sir Edward Martin.

' “ Boys with a turn for historical research will be enchanted with the book
while the rest who only care for adventure.will be students in spite of them
selves.”—St. James’ Gazette.

St. George for England: A Tale of Cressy and Poitiers. By
G. A. Henty. With full-page Illustrations by GoRDON
BROWNE. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

No portion of English history is more crowded with great events
than that of the reign of Edward IIL. Cressy and Poitiers; the
destruction of the Spanish fleet; the plague of the Black Death;
tke Jacquerie rising; these are treated by the author ‘in ‘St.
George for England.” ‘The hero of the story, although of good
family, begins life as a London apprentice, but after countless ad.
ventures and perils becomes by valor and good conduct the squire,
and at last the trusted friend of the Black Prince.

“Mr. Henty has developed for himself a type of historical novel for boys
which bids fair to supplement, on their behalf, the historical labors of Sir
Walter Scott in the land ¢f fiction.’"—The Standard.

Captain’s Kidd’s Gold: The True Story of an Adventurous Sailor
Boy. By JAMES FRANKLIN Firrs. 12mo, clotn, price $1.00.

There is something fascinating to the average youth in the very
idea of buried treasure. A vision arises before his eyes of swarthy
Portuguese and Spanish rascais, with black beards and gleaming
eyes—sinister-looking fellows who once on a time haunted the
Spanish Main, sneaking out from some hidden creek in their long,
low schooner, of picaroonish rake and sheer, to attack an ansus-
pecting trading craft. There were many famous sea rovers in
their day, but none more celebrated than Capt. Kidd. Perhaps
the most fascinating tale of all is Mr. Fitts’ true story of an adven.
turous American boy, who receives from his dying father an
ancient bit of vellum, which the latter obtained in a curious way.
The document bears obscure directions purporting to locate a cer-
tain island in the Bahama group, and a considerable treasure
buried there by two of Kidd’s crew. The hero of this book,
Paul Jones Garry, is an ambitious, persevering lad, of salt-water
New England aucestry, and his efforts to reach the island and
secure the money form one of the most absorbing tales for our
youth that has come from the press
A. L. BURT'S PUBLICATIONS. ?





Captain Bayley’s Heir: A Tale of the Gold Fields of California.
By G. A. Henry. With full-page Illustrations by H. M.
Pacer. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

A frank, manly lad and his cousin are rivals in the heirship of a
co siderable property. The former falls into a trap laid by the
latter, and while under a false accusation of theft foolishly leaves
England for America. He works his passage before the mast,
joins a small band of hunters, crosses a tract of country infested
with Indians to the Californian gold diggings, and is successful
both as digger and trader.

“Mr, Henty is careful to mingle instruction with entertainment; and the

humorous touches, especially in the sketch of John Holl, the Westminster
dustman, Dickens himself could hardly have excelled.”"—Christian Leader.

For Name and Fame; or, Through Afghan Passes. By G. A.
Henry. With full-page Illustrations by GoRDON BROWNE.
12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

An interesting story of the last war in Afghanistan. The hero,
after being wrecked and going through many stirring adventures
among the Malays, finds his way to Caleutta and enlists in a regi-
ment proceeding to join the army at the Afghan passes. He ac-
companies the force under General Roberts to the Peiwar Kotal,
is wounded, taken prisoner, carried to Cabul, whence he is trans:
ferred to Candahar, and takes part in the final defeat of the army
of Ayoub Khan.

“The best feature of the book—apart from the interest of its scenes of ad-

venture—is its honest effort to do justice to the patriotism of the Afghan
people.” — Daily News.

Captured by Apes: The Wonderful Adventures of a Young
Animal Trainer. By HARRY PRENTICE. 12mo, cloth, $1.00.

The scene of this tale is laid on an island in the Malay Archi-
pelago. Philip Garland, a young animal collector and trainer, of
New York, sets sail for Eastern seas in quest of a new stock of
living curiosities. The vessel is wrecked off the coast of Borneo
and young Garland, the sole survivor of the disaster, is cast ashore
on a small island, and captured by the apes that overrun the
place. The lad discovers that the ruling spirit of the monkey
tribe is a gigantic and vicious baboon, whom he identifies as
Goliah, an animal at one time in his possession and with whose
instruction he had been especially diligent. ‘The brute recognizes
him, and with a kind of malignant satisfaction puts his former
master through the same course of training he had himself ex-
perienced with a faithfulness of detail which shows bow astonish-
ing is monkey recollection, Very novel indeed is the way by
which the young man escapes death. Mr. Prentice has certainly
worked a new vein on juvenile fiction, and the ability with which
- ee a difficult subject stamps him as a writer of undoubted
skill.
8 A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS,





The Bravest of the Brave; or, With Peterborough in Spain,
By G, A. Henry. With full-page Lllustrations by H. M.
Pacer, 12m», cloth, price $1.00.

There are few great leaders whose lives and actions have so
completely fallen into oblivion as those of the Earl of Peter.
borough. This is largely due to the fact that they were over-
shadowed by the glory and successes of Marlborough. His career
as general extended over little more than a year, and yet, in that
time, he showed a genius for warfare which has never been sur-
passed. s

“Mr. Henty never loses sight of the moral purpose of his work—to enforce

the doctrine of courage and truth. Lads will read ‘ The Bravest of the Brave?
with pleasure and profit; of that we are quite sure.” —Duily Telegraph.

The Cat of Bubastes: A Story of Ancient Egypt. By G. A.
Henry. With full page Illustrations. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

A story which will give young readers an unsurpassed insight
into the customs of the Egyptian people. Amuba, a prince of the
Rebu nation, is carried with his charioteer Jethro into slavery.
They become inmates of the house of Ameres, the Egyptian high-
priest, and are happy in his service until the priest’s son acci-
dentally kills the sacred cat of Bubastes. In an outburst of popular
fury Ameres is killed, and it rests with Jethro and Amuba to
secure the escape of the high-priest’s son and daughter.

“The story, from the critical moment of the killing of the sacred cat to the
perilous exodus into Asia with which it closes, is very skillfully constructed

and full of exciting adventures. It is admirably illustrated.”’—Saturday
Review.

With Washington at Monmouth: A Story of Three Phila-
delphia Boys. By JamEs Oris. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.
Three Philadelphia boys, Seth Graydon ‘‘ whose mother con-

ducted a boarding-lhouse which was patronized by the British

officers;” Enoch Ball, ‘‘son of that Mrs. Ball whose dancing
school was situated on Letitia Street,” and little Jacob, son of

‘Chris, the Baker,” serve as the principal characters. The

story is laid during the winter when Lord Howe held possession

of the city, and the lads aid the cause by assisting the American
spies who make r.gular and frequent visits from Valley Forge.

One reads here of home-life in the captive city when bread was

scarce among the people of the lower classes, and a reckless prodi-

gality shown by the British officers, who passed the winter in
feasting and merry-making while the members of the patriot army
but a few miles away were suffering from both cold and hunger.

The story abounds with pictures of Colonial life skillfully

drawn, and the glimpses of Washington’s soldiers which are given

show that the work has not been hastily done, or without con-
siderable study. :
A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. - 9



For the Temple: A Tale of the Fall of Jerusalem. By G. A.
Henty. With full-page Illustrations by 8. J. Sonomon. 12mo,
cloth, price $1.00.

Mr. Henty here weaves into the record of Josephus an admirable
and attractive story. The troubles in the district of Tiberias, the
march of the legions, the sieges of Jotapata, of Gamala, and of
Jerusalem, form the impressive and carefully studied historic
setting to the figure of the lad who passes from the vineyard to
the service of Josephus, becomes the leader of a guerrilla band of
patriots, fights bravely for the Temple, and after a brief term of
slavery at Alexandria, returns to his Galilean home with the favor
of Titus.

“Mr, Henty’s graphic prose pictures of the hopeless Jewish resistance to

Roman sway add another leaf tu his record of the famous wars of the world.”
—Graphic.

Facing Death; or, The Hero of the Vaughan Pit. A Tale of
the Coal Mines. By G. A. Henry. With full-page Ilustra-
tions by GorpoN Browne. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

‘‘Facing Death” is a story with a purpose. It is intended to
show that a lad who makes up bis mind firmly and resolutely that
he will rise in life, and who is prepared to face toil and ridicule
and hardship to carry out his determination, is sure to succeed.
The hero of the story isa typical British boy, dogged, earnest,
generous, and though ‘‘shamefaced” to a degree, is ready to face
death in the discharge of duty.

“The tale is well written and well illustrated, and there is much reality in
the characters. If any father, clergyman, or schoolmaster is on the lookout

for a good book to give as a present to a boy who is worth his salt, this is the
book we would recommend.”—Standard.

Tom Temple’s Career. By Horatio ALGER. 12mo, cloth,
price $1.00.

Tom Temple, a bright, self-reliant lad, by the death of his
father becomes a boarder at the home of Nathan Middleton, a
penurious insurance agent. Though well paid for keeping the
boy, Nathan and his wife endeavor to bring Master Tom in line
with their parsimonious habits, The lad ingeniously evades their
efforts and revolutionizes the household. As om is heir to
$40,000, he is regarded as a person of some importance until by
an unfortunate combination of circumstances his fortune shrinks
toa few hundreds. He leaves Plympton village to seek work in
New York, whence he undertakes an important mission to Cali-
fornia, around which center the most exciting incidents of his
young career. Some of his adventures in the far west are so
startling that the reader will scarcely close the book until the last
page shall have been reached. ‘The tale is written in Mr. Alger’s
most fascinating style, and is bound to please the very large class
of boys who regard this popular anthor as a prime favorite.
10 A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS.



Maori and Settler: A Story of the New Zealand War. By
G. A. Henry. With full-page llustrations by ALFRED PEARSE.
12imo, cloth, price $1.00.

The Renshaws emigrate to New Zealand during the period of
the war with the natives. Wilfrid, a strong, self-reliant, coura-
geous lad, isthe mainstay of the household. He has for his friend
Mr. Atherton, a botanist and naturalist of herculean strength and
unfailing nerve and humor. In theadventures among the Maoris,
there are many breathless moments-in which the odds seem hope-
lessly against the party, but they succeed in establishing them-
selves happily in one of the pleasant New Zealand valleys.

‘“Brimful of adventure, of humorous and interesting conversation, and
vivid pictures of colonial life.”"—Schooimaster.

Julian Mortimer}: A Brave Boy’s Struggle for Home and Fortune,
By Harry CasTLeEmMon. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

Here is a story that will warm every boy’s heart. There is
mystery enough to keep any lad’s imagination wound up to the
highest pitch. The scene of the story lies west of the Mississippi
River, in the days when emigrants made their perilous way across
the great plains to the land of gold. One of the startling features
of the book is the attack upon the wagon train by a large party of
Indians. Our hero isa lad of uncommon nerve and pluck, a brave
young American in every sense of the word. He enlists and holds
the reader’s sympathy from the outset. Surrounded by an un-
known and constant peril, and assisted by the unswerving fidelity
of a stalwart trapper, a real rough diamond, our hero achieves the
most happy results. Harry Castlemon has written many enter-
taining stories for boys, and it would seem almost superfluous to
say anything in his praise, for the youth of America regard him
as a favorite author.

“Carrots: Just a Little Boy. By Mrs. MoLeswortH, With
Illustrations by WALTER CRANE. 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents,

‘One of the cleverest and most pleasing stories it has been our good for-
tune to meet with for some time. Carrots and his sister are delightful little
beings, whom to read about is at once to become very fond of.°— Examiner.

“A genuine children’s book; we’ve seen ‘em seize it, and read it greedily.
Children are first-rate critics, and thoroughly appreciate Walter Crane’s
illustrations.”’— Punch.

Mopsa the Fairy. By Juan IncELow. With Eight page
Illustrations. 12ino, cloth, price 75 cents.

“Mrs. Ingelow is, to our mind, the most charming of all living writers for
children, and ‘ Mopsa’ alone ought to give her a kind of pre-emptive right to
the love and gratitude of our young folks. It requires genius to conceive a
purely imaginary work which must of necessity deal with the supernatural,
without running into a mere rio: of fantastic absurdity; but genius Miss In-
gelow has and the story of ‘Jack’ is as careless and joyous, but as delicate,
as a picture of childhood.”—electic.
A. i. PURT’S PUBLICATIONS. it

~

A Jaunt Through Java: The Story of a Journey to the Sacred
Mountain. By Epwarp 8. Exiis. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00

The central interest of this story is found in the thrilling ad-
ventures of two cousins, Hermon and Eustace Hadley, on their
trip across the island of Java, from Samarang to the Sacred Moun
tain, In a land where the Royal Bengal tiger runs at large;
where the rhinoceros and other fierce beasts are to be met witb
at unexpected moments; it is but natural that the heroes of this
book should have a lively experience. Hermon not only dis:
tinguishes himself by killing a full-grown tiger at short range,
but meets with the most startling adventure of the journey
There is much in this narrative to instruct as well a~ entertain the
reader, and sc deftly has Mr. Ellis used his material that the e is
uot a dull page in the book. The two heroes are brave, manly
young fellows, bubbling over with boyish independence. They
cope with the many difficulties that arise during the trip in a fear-
less way that is bound to win the admiration of every lad who is
so fortunate as to read their adventures.

Wrecked on Spider Island; or, How Ned Rogers Found the
Treasure. By James Oris. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

A ‘‘down-east” plucky lad who ships as cabin boy, not from
love of adventure, but because it is the only course remaining by
which he can gain a livelihood. While in his bunk, seasick,
Ned Rogers hears the captain and mate discussing their plans for
the willful wreck of the brig in order to gain the insurance. Once
it is known he is in possession of the secret the captain maroons
him on Spider Island, explaining to the crew that the boy is
afflicted with leprosy. While thusinvoluntarily playing the part
of a Crusoe, Ned discovers a wreck submerged in the sand, and
overhauling the timbers for the purpose of gathering material
with which to build a hut finds a considerable amount of treasure.
Raising the wreck; a voyave to Havana under sail; shipping there
a crew and running for Savannah; the attempt of the crew to
seize the little craft after learning of the treasure on board, and,
asa matter of course, the successful ending of the journey, all
serve to make as entertaining a story of sea-life as the most
captious boy could desire.

Geoff and Jim: A Story of School Life. By Ismay THorn. I
lustrated by A. G@. WALKER. 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents.

““Mhis is a prettily told story of the life spent by two motherless bairns at
asmall preparatory school. Both Geoff and Jim are very lovable characters,
only Jim is the more so; and the scrapes he gets into and the trials he en-
dares will, no doubt, interest a large circle of young readers.”—Church

mes.

“This is a capital children’s story, the characters well portrayed, and the
book tastefully bound and well illustrated.”—Schoolmaster.

“The story can be heartily recommended as a present for boys.”—
Standard.








12 - A. L. BURT'S PUBLICATIONS.



— ey

The Castaways; or, On the Florida Reefs. By Jamxs OTIS.
12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

This tale smacks of the salt sea. It is just the kind of story
that the majority cf boys yearn for. From the moment that the
Sea Queen dispenses with the services of the tug in lower New
York bay till the breeze leaves her be.almed off the coast of
Florida, one can almost hear the whistle of the wind through her
rigging, the creak of her straining cordage as she heels to the
leeward, and feel her rise to the snow-capped waves which her
sharp bow cuts into twin streaks of foam. Off Marquesas Keys
she floats in a dead calm. Ben Clark, the hero of the story, and
Jake, the cook, spy a turtle asleep upon the glassy surface of the
water. ‘They determine to capture him, and take a boat for that
purpose, and just as they succeed in catching him a thick fog
suts them off from the vessel, and then their troubles be in.
They take refuge on board a drifting hulk, a storm arises and they
are cast ashore upon a low sandy key. Their adventures from
this point cannot fail to charm the reader, As a writer for young
people Mr. Otis is a prime favorite. His style is captivating, and
never for a moment does he allow the interest to flag. In ‘' The
Castaways” he is at his best.

Tom Thatcher’s Fortune. By Horatio ALGER, Jus. i12me,
cloth, price $1.00.

Like all of Mr, Alger’s heroes, Tom Thatcher is a brave, am-
bitious, unselfish boy. He supports his mother and sister on
meager wages earned as a shoe-pegger in John Simpson’s factory.
The story begins with Tom's discharge from the factory, because
Mr. Simpson felt annoyed with the lad for interrogating him too
closely about his missing father. A few days afterward Tom
learns that which induces him tostart overland for California with
the view of probing the family mystery. He meets with many ad-
ventures. Ultimately he returns to his native village, bringing con-
sternation to the soul of John Simpson, who only escapes the con-
sequences of his villainy by making full restitution to the man
whose friendship he had betrayed. The story is told in that en-
tertaining way which has made Mr, Alger’s name a household
word in so many homes.

Birdie: A Tale of Child Life. By H. L. CoiLpE-PEMBERTON.

Illustrated by H. W. Rarnzey. 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents.
“The story is quaint and simple, but there is a freshness about it that
makes ove hear again the ringing laugh and the cheery shout of children at
play which charmed his earlier years.”-—New York Hapress.
Popular Fairy Tales, By the Brotuers Grimm Profusely
UJustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

“From first tolast, almost without exception, these stories are delightful.”
—dtheneum.
A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS, 13
ee

With Lafayette at Yorktown: A Story of How Two Boys
Joined the Continental Army. By JamEs OTIs. 12mo, cloth,
price $1.00.

The two boys are from Portsmouth, N. H., and are introduced
in August, 1781, when on the point of leaving home to enlist in
Col. Scammell’s regiment, then stationed near New York City.
Their method of traveling is on horseback, and the author has
given an interesting account of what was expected from boys in
the Colonial days. The lads, after no slight amount of adventure,
are sent as messengers—not soldiers—into the south to find the
troops under Lafayette. Once with that youthful general they
are given employment as spies, and enter the British camn,
bringing away valuable information. The pictures of camp-lite
are carefully drawn, and the portrayal of Lafayette’s character is
thoroughly well done. The story is wholesome in tone, as are all
of Mr. Otis’ works. There is no lack of exciting incident which
the youthful reader craves, but it is healthful excitement brim-
ming with facts which every boy should be familiar with, and
while the reader is following the adventures of Ben Jafireys and
Ned Allen he is acquiring a fund of historical lore which will
remain in his memory long after that which he has memorized
from text-books has been forgotten.

Lost in the Canon: Sam Willett’s Adventures on the Great
Colorado. By ALFRED R. CALHOUN. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.
This story hinges on a fortune left to Sam Willett, the hero,

and the fact that it will pass to a disreputable relative if the lad
dies before he shall have reached his majority. The Vigilance
Comittee of Hurley’s Gulch arrest Sam’s father and an associate
for the crime of murder. Their lives depend «= he production
of the receipt given for money paid. This u Sam’s possession
at the camp on the other side of the cafion. A messenger is dis-
patched to get it. He reaches the lad in the midst of a fearful
storm whieh floods the cafion. His father’s peril urges Sam to
action. A raft is built on which the boy and his friends essay to
cross the torrent. ‘They fail to do so, and a desperate trip down
the stream ensues. How the party finally escape from the hor-
tors of their situation and Sam reaches Hurley’s Gulch in the very
nick of time, is described in a graphic style that stamps Mr. Cal-
houn as a master of his art.

Jack: A Topsy Turvy Story. By C. M. Crawiey-Borvey
With upward ef Thirty Illustrations by H. J. A. MILEs,

12mo, cloth, price 75 cents.

_ “The illustrations deserve particular mention, as they add largely to tha
interest of this amusing volume forchildren. Jack fallsasleep with his mind
full of the subject of the fishpond, and is very much surprised presently to
find himself an inhabitant of Waterworld, where he goes though wonderful
and edifying adventures. A handsomeand pleasant book.”—Literary World.
14 A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS.



q

Search for the Silver City: A Tale of Adventure in Yucatan.
By JaAmzs Oris. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

Two American lads, Teddy Wright and Neal Emery, embark
on the steam yacht Day Dream for a short summer cruise to the
tropics. Homeward bound the yacht is destroyed by fire. Al
hands take to the boats, but during the night the boat is cast upon
the coast of Yucatan. They come across a young American
named Cummings, who entertains them with the story of the
wonderful Silver City, of the Chan Santa Cruz Indians. Cum-
mings proposes with the aid of a faithful Indian ally to brave
the perils of the swamp and carry off a number of the golden
images from the temples. Pursued with relentless vigor for days
their situation is desperate. At last their escape is effected in an
astonishing manner. Mr. Otis has built his story on an historical
foundation. It is so full of exciting incidents that the reader is
quite carried away with the novelty and realism of the narrative.

Frank Fowler, the Cash Boy. By Horatio ALGER, JR. 12mo,
cloth, price $1.00.

Thrown upon his own resources Frank Fowler, a poor boy,
bravely determines to make a living for himself and his foster.
sister Grace. Going to New York he obtains a situation as cash
boy in a dry goods store. He renders a service to a wealthy old
gentleman named Wharton, who takes a fancy to the lad. Frank,
after losing his place as cash boy, is enticed by an enemy wa
lonesome part of New Jersey and held a prisoner. This move re-
coils upon the plotter, for it leads to a clue that enables the lad to
establish his real identity. Mr. Alger’s stories are not only un-
usually interesting, but they convey a useful lesson of pluck and
manly independence.

Budd Boyd’s Triumph; or, the Boy Firm of Fox Island. By
WILLIAM P, CHIPMAN. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

The scene of this story is laid on the upper part of Narragansett
Bay, and the leading incidents have a strong salt-water flavor.
Owing to the conviction of his father for forgery and theft, Budd
Boyd is compelled to leave his home and strike out ‘for himself.
Chance brings Budd in contact with Judd Floyd The two boys,
being ambitious and clear sighted, form a partnership to catcb
and sell fish. The scheme is successfully launched, but the un-
expected appearance on the scene of Thomas Bagsley, the mar
whom Budd believes guilty of the crimes attributed to his father,
leads to several disagreeable complications that nearly caused the
lad’s rain. His pluck and good sense, however, carry him through
his troubles. In following the career of the boy firm of Boyd &
Floyd, the youthful reader will find a useful lesson—that industry
and perseverance are bound to lead to ultimate success.
A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS, 15



The Errand Boy; or, How Phil Brent Won Success. By

Horatio ALGER, JR. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

The career of ‘‘ The Errand Boy” embraces the city adventures
of a smart country Jad who at an early age was abandoned by his
father. Philip was brought up by a kind-hearted innkeeper
named Brent. The death of Mrs. Brent paved the way for the
hero’s subsequent troubles. Accident introduces him to the
notice of a retired merchant in New York, who not only secures
him the situation of errand boy but thereafter stands as his
friend. An unexpected turn of fortune’s wheel, however, brings
Philip and his father together. In ‘‘The Errand Boy” Philip
Brent is possessed of the same sterling qualities so conspicuous in
all of the previous creations of this delightful writer for our youth.

The Slate Picker: The Story of a Boy’s Life in the Coal Mines.
By Harry PRENTICE. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

This is a story of a boy’s life in the coal mines of Pennsylvania.
There are many thrilling situations, notably that of Ben Burton’s
leap into the ‘‘ lion’s mouth ’—the yawning shute in the breakers
—to escape a beating at the hands of the savage Spilkins, the
overseer. Gracie Gordon isa little angel in rags, Terence O'Dowd
is a manly, sympathetic lad, and Enoch Evans, the miner-poet, is
a big-hearted, honest fellow, a true friend to all whose bur-
dens seem too heavy for them to bear. Ben Burton, the hero, had
a hard road to travel, but by grit and energy he advanced step by
step until he found himself called upon to fill the position of
chief engineer of the Kohinoor Coal Company.

A Runaway Brig; or, An Accidental Cruise. By James Oris.
12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

‘‘A Runaway Brig ” is a sea tale, pure and simple, and that’s
where it strikes a boy’s fancy. The reader can look out upon
the wide shimmering sea as it flashes back the sunlight, and
imagine himself afloat with Harry Vandyne, Walter Morse, Jim
Libby and that old shell-back, Bob Brace, on the brig Bonita,
which lands on one of the Bahama keys. Finally three strangers
steal the craft, leaving the rightful owners to shift for themselves
aboard a broken-down tug. The boys discover a mysterious
document which enables tlem to find a buried treasure, then a
storm comes on and the tug is stranded. At last a yacht comesin
sight and the party with the treasure is taken off the lonely key.
The most exacting youth is sure to be fascinated with this enter-
taining story.

Fairy Tales and Stories. By Hans Curistran ANDERSEN.
Profusely Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

iq_if I were asked to select a child’s library I should name these three volumes
English,’ ‘ Celtic,’ and ‘Indian Fairy Tales,’ with Grimm and Hans Ander-
sen’s Fairy Tales.” —Independent.
16 A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS.





The Island Treasure; or, Harry Darrel’s Fortune. By FRANK
H. Converse. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

Harry Darrel, an orphan, having received a nautical training on
a school-ship, is bent on going to sea with a boyish acquaintance
named Dan Plunket. A runaway horse changes his prospects.
Harry saves Dr. Gregg from drowning and the doctor presents his
preserver with a bit of property known as Gregg’s Island, and
makes the lad sailing-master of his sloop yacht. A piratical hoard
is supposed to be hidden somewhere on the island. After much
search and many thwarted plans, at last Dan discovers the
treasure and is the means of finding Harry’s father. Mr. Con-
verse’s stories possess a charm of their own which is appreeiated
by lads who delight in good healthy tales that smack of salt
water.

The Boy Explorers: The Adventures of Two Boys in Alaska.
By Harry PRENTICE. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

Two boys, Raymond and Spencer Manning, travel from San
Francisco to Alaska to join their father in search of their uncle,
who, it is believed, was captured and detained by the inhabitants
of a place called the ‘‘ Heart of Alaska.” On their arrival at
Sitka the boys with an Indian guide set off across the mountains.
The trip is fraught with perils that test the lads’ courage to the
utmost. Reaching the Yukon River they build a raft and float
down the stream, entering the Mysterious River, from which they
barely escape with their lives, only to be captured by natives of
the Heart of Alaska. All through their exciting adventures the
lads demonstrate what can be accomplished by pluck and resolu-
tion, and their experience makes one of the most interesting tales
ever written.

The Treasure Finders: A Boy’s Adventures in Nicaragua. By
JAMES OTIS. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

Roy and Dean Coloney, with their guide Tongla, leave their
father’s indigo plantation to visit the wonderful ruins of an ancient
city. The boys eagerly explore the dismantled temples of an ex-
tinct race and discover three golden images cunningly hidden
away. They escape with the greatest difficulty; by taking advan-
tage of a festive gathering they seize a canoe and fly down the
river. Eventually they reach safety with their golden prizes.
Mr. Otis is the prince of story tellers, for he handles his material
with consummate skill. We doubt if he has ever written a more
entertaining story than ‘‘ The Treasure Finders.”

Household Fairy Tales. By the Broruers Grinm. Profusely
Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

** As a collection of fairy tales to deligbt children of all ages this work
ranks second to none.”—Daily Graphic.
A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 14





Dan the Newsboy. By Horario ALGER, JR. 12mo, cloth,
price $1.00.

The reader is introduced to Dan Mordaunt and his mother living
in a poor tenement, and the Jad is pluckily trying te make ends
meet by selling papers in the streets of New York. A little
heiress of six years is confided to the care of the Mordaunts. At
the same time the lad obtains a position in a wholesale house.
He soon demonstrates how valuable he is to the firm by detecting
the bookkeeper in a bold attempt to rob his employers. The
child is kidnaped and Dan tracks the child to the house where
she is hidden, and rescues her. The wealthy aunt of the little
heiress is so delighted with Dan’s courage and many good qualities
that she adopts him as her heir, and the conclusion of the book
leaves the hero on the high road to every earthly desire.

Tony the Hero: A Brave Boy’s Adventure with a Tramp. By
Horatio ALGER, JR. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

Tony, a sturdy bright-eyed boy of fourteen, is under the control
of Rudolph Rugg, a thorough rascal, shiftless and lazy, spending
his time tramping about the country. After much abuse Tony
runs away and gets a jobas stable boy ina country hotel. Tony is
heir to a large estate in England, and certain persons find it nec-
essary to produce proof of the lad’s death. Rudolph for a con-
sideration hunts up Tony and throws him down a deep well. Of
course Tony escapes from the fate provided for him, and by a
brave act makes a rich friend, with whom he goes to England,
where he secures his rights and is prosperous, The fact that Mr.
Alger is the author of this entertaining book will at once recom-
mend it to all juvenile readers.

A Youxg Hero; or, Fighting to Win. By Epwarp §. EL.is,
12mo, eloth, price $1.00.

This stury tells how a valuable solid silver service was stolen
from the Misses Perkinpine, two very old and simple minded
ladies. Fred Sheldon, the hero of this story and a friend of the
old ladies, undertakes to discover the thieves and have them ar-
rested. After much time spent in detective work, be succeeds in
discovering the silver plate and winning the reward for its re-
storation. During the narrative a circus comes to town and a
thrilling account of the escape of the lion from its cage, with its
recapture, is told in Mr. Ellis’ most fascinating style. Every
boy will be glad to read this delightful book.

The Days of Bruce: A Story from Scottish History. By GRACE

AauinaR. Tlustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

‘There is a delightful freshness, sincerity and vivacity about all of Grac@
Aguilar’s stories which cannot fail to win the interest and admiration of
every lover of good reading.’ —Boston Beacon.
18 A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS.



Tom the Bootblack; or, The Road to Success. By Horatio
ALGER, JR. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

A bright, enterprising lad was Tom the bootblack. He was
not at all ashamed of his humble calling, though always on the
lookout to better himself. His guardian, old Jacob Morten, died,
leaving him a small sum of money and a written confession that
Tom, instead of being of humble origin, was the son and heir of
a deceased Western merchant, and had been defrauded out of his
just rights by an unscrupulous uncle. The lad started for Cin-
cinnati to look up his heritage. But three years passed away
before he obtained his first clue. Mr. Grey, the uncle, did not
hesitate to employ a ruffian to kill the lad. The plan failed, and
Gilbert Grey, once Tom the bootblack, came into a comfortable
fortune. This is one of Mr. Alger’s best stories,

Captured by Zulus: A story of Trapping in Africa. By Harry
PRENTICE. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

This story details the adventures of two lads, Dick Elsworth
and Bob Harvey, in the wilds of South Africa, for the purpose of
obtaining a supply of zoological curiosities. By stratagem the
Zulus capture Dick and Bob and take them to their principal
kraal or village. The lads escape death by digging their way
out of the prison hut by night. ‘'hey are pursued, and after a
rough experience the boys eventually rejoin the expedition and
take part in several wild animal hunts. The Zulus finally give
up pursuit and the expedition arrives at the coast without further
trouble, Mr. Prentice has a delightful method of blending fact
with fiction, He tells exactly how wild-beast collectors secure
specimens on their native stamping grounds, and these descrip-
tions make very entertaining reading.

Tom the Ready; or, Up from the Lowest. By RANDOLPH
Hii. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

This is a dramatic narrative of the unaided rise of a fearless,
ambitious boy from the lowest round of fo tune’s ladder—the
gate of the poorhouse—to wealth and the governorship of his
native State. ‘'homas Seacomb begins life with a purpose. While
yet a schoolboy he conceives and presents to the world the germ
of the Overland Express Co. At the very outset of his career
jealousy and craft seek to blast his promising future. Later he
sets out to obtain a charter for a railroad line in connection with
the express business. Now he realizes what it is to match him-
self against capital. Yet he wins and the railroad is built. Only
an uncommon nature like Tom’s could successfully oppose such a
combine. How he manages to win the battle is told by Mr. Hill
in a masterful way that thrills the reader and holds his attention
and sympathy to the end.
A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 19



Roy Gilbert’s Search: A Tale of the Great Lakes. By WM. P,

CuIpMANn. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

A deep mystery hangs over the parentage of Roy Gilbert.
He arranges with two schoolmates to make a tour of the
Great Lakes on a steam launch. The three boys leave Erie on
the launch and visit many points of interest on the lakes. Soon
afterward the lad is conspicuous in the rescue of an elderly gentle-
man and a lady from a sinking yacht. Later on the cruise of the
launch is brought to a disastrous termination and the boys nar-
rowly escape with their lives. The hero is a manly, self-reliant
boy, whose adventures will be followed with interest.

The Young Scout; The Story of a West Point Lieutenant. By
Epwagp §. Exiis. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

The crafty Apache chief Geronimo buta few years ago was tha
most terrible scourge of the southwest border. The author has
woven,ina tale of thrilling interest, all the incidents of Geronimo’s
Jast raid. he hero is Lieutenant James Decker, a recent graduate
of West Point. Ambitious to distinguish himself so as to win
well-deserved promotion, the young man takes many a desperate
chance against the enemy and on more than one occasion nar-
rowly escapes with his life. The story naturally abounds in
thrilling situations, and being historically correct, it is reasonable
to believe it will find great favor with the boys. In our opinion
Mr. Ellis is the best writer of Indian stories now before the
public.

Adrift in the Wilds: The Adventures of Two Shipwrecked
Boys. By Epwarp 8. Enis. 12mo, cloth, price, $1.00.

Elwood Brandon and Howard Lawrence, cousins and school-
mates, accompanied by a lively Irishman called O’Rooney, are en
route for San Francisco. Off the coast of California the steamer
takes fire. The two boys and their companion reach the shore
with several of the passengers. While O’Rooney and the lads
are absent inspecting the neighborhood O’Rooney has an excit-
ing experience and young Brandon becomes separated from his
party. He is captured by hostile Indians, but is rescued by an
Indian whom the lads had assisted. This is a very entertaining
narrative of Southern California in the days immediately preced-
ing the construction of the Pacific railroads. Mr. Ellis seems to
be particularly happy in this line of fiction, and the present story
is fully as entertaining as anything he has ever written.

The Red Fairy Book. Edited by ANDREW LANe. Profusely

Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

“ A gift-book that will charm any child, and all older folk who have been
fo anate enough to retain their taste for the old nursery stories,”’—Literary
orld.
20 A, L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS.

The Boy Cruisers; or, Paddling in Florida, By St, GzorGE
RaTHBORNE. 12mo, cloth, price, $1.00.

Boys who like an admixture of sport and adventure will find
this book just to their taste. We promise them that they will
not go to sleep over the rattling experiences of Andrew George
and Roland Carter, who start on a canoe trip along the Gulf
coast, from Key West to Tampa, Florida. Their first adventure
is with a pair of rascals who steal their boats. Next they rur
into a gale in the Gulf and have a lively experience while it lasts.
After that they have a lively time with alligators and divers
varieties of the finny tribe. Andrew gets into trouble with a

. band of Seminole Indians and gets away without having his
scalp raised, After this there is no lack of fun till they
reach their destination. That Mr. Rathborne knows just how to
interest the boys is apparent at a glance, and lads who are in
search of a rare treat will do well to read this entertaining story.

Guy Harris: The Runaway. By Harry CAsTLEMON. 12mo,
cloth, price $1.00.

Guy Harris lived in asmall city on the shore of one of the
Great Lakes. His head became filled with quixotic notions of
going West to hunt grizzlies, in fact, Indians. He is per-
suaded to go to sea, and gets a glimpse of the rongh side of life
in a sailor’s Loarding house. He ships on a vessel and for five
months leads a hard life. He deserts his ship at San Francisco
and starts out to become a backwoodsman, bui rough experiences
soon cure him of all desire to be a hunter. At St. Louis he be-
comes a clerk and for a time he yields to the temptations of a
great city. The book will not only interest boys generally on
account of its graphic style, but will put many facts before their
eyes in a new light. This is one of Castlemon’s most attractive
stories.

The Train Boy. By Horatio AueEr, Jr. 12mo, cloth, price
$1.00.

Paul Palmer was a wide-awake boy of sixteen who supported
‘his mother and sister by selling books and papers on one of the
trains running between Chicago and Milwaukee. He detects a
young man named Luke Denton in the act of picking the pocket
of a young lady, and also incurs the enmity of his brother Ste-
phen, a worthless follow. Luke and Stephen plot to ruin Paul,
but their plans are frustrated. Ina railway accident many pas-
sengers are killed, but Paul is fortunate enough to assist a Chicago
merchant, who out of gratitude takes him into hisemploy. Paul
is sent to manage a mine in Custer City and executes his com-
mission with tact and judgment and is well started on the road
to business prominence. This is one of Mr. Alger’s most attrac-
tive stories and is sure to please all readers.
A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 21



Joe’s Luck: A Boy’s Adventures in California. By Horatio
ALGER, JR. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

Without a doubt Joe Mason was a lucky boy, but he deserved
the golden chances that fell to his lot, for he had the pluck and
ainbition to push himself to the front. Joe had but one dollar in
the world when he stood despondently on the California Mail
Steamship Co.’s dock in New York watching the preparations in-
cident to the departure of the steamer. The same dollar was
still Joe’s entire capital when he landed in the bustling town of
tents and one-story cabins—the San Francisco of ’51, and inside
of the week the boy was proprietor of a small restaurant earning a
comfortable profit. The story is chock full of stirring incidents, *
while the amusing situations are furnished by Joshua Bickford,
from Pumpkin Hollow, and the fellow who modestly styles him-
self the ‘‘Rip-tail Roarer, from Pike Co., Missouri.” Mr. Alger
Heyer writes a poor book, and ‘‘Joe’s Luck” is certainly one of

is best.

Three Bright Girls: A Story of Chance and Mischance. By
ANNIE E. ARMSTRONG. With full page Illustrations by W.
Pargrnson. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

By a sudden turn of fortune’s wheel the three heroines of this
story are brought down from a household of lavish comfort to
meet the incessant cares and worries of those who have to eke out
a very limited income. And the charm of the story lies in the
cheery helpfulness of spirit develuped in the girls by their changed
circumstances; while the author finds a pleasant ending to all
their happy makeshifts.

“The story is charmingly told, and the book can be warmly recommended
as a present for girls.”—Standard.

Giannetta: A Girl’s Story of Herself. By Rosa MULHOLLAND.
With full-page [lustrations by LockH#artT BoGLE. 12mo,
cloth, price $1.00.

The daughter of a gentleman, who had married a poor Swiss
girl, was stolen as an infant by some of her mother’s relatives.
The child having died, they afterward for the sake of gain sub-
stitute another child for it, and the changeling, after becoming
aclever modeler of clay images, is suddenly transferred to the
position of a rich heiress. She develops into a good and accom-
plished woman, and though the imposture of her early friends is
finally discovered, she has gained too much love and devotion to
be really a sufferer by the surrender of her estates.

“ Extremely well told and full of interest. Giannetta is a true heroine—
warm-hearted, self-sacrificing, and, as all good women nowadays are. largely

touched with enthusiasm of humanity. The ilustrations are unusually good.
One of the most attractive gift books of the season."—The Academy.
22 A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS.
8 I PO ie em

Margery Merton’s Girlhood. By ALtce CorKRAN. With full-
page Illustrations by Gorpon Brownz. 12mo, cloth, price
$1.00.

The experiences of an orphan girl who in infancy is left by her
father—an officer in India—to the care of an elderly aunt residing
near Paris. The accounts of the various persons who have an
after influence on the story, the school companions of Margery,
the sisters of the Conventual College of Art, the professor, and
the peasantry of Fontainebleau, are singularly vivid. ‘here isa
subtle attraction about the book which will make it a great favorite
with thoughtful girls,

“ Another book for girls we can warmly commend. There is a delightful

piquancy in the experiences and trials of a young English girl who studies
painting in Paris."—Saturday Review.

Under False Colors: A Story from Two Girls’ Lives. By
Saray DoupNey. With full-page Ilustrations by G. G. Kin
BURNE. 121mo, cloth, price $1.00.

A story which has in it so strong a dramatic element that it
will attract readers of all ages and of either sex. The incidents
of the plot, arising from the thoughtless indulgence of a decep-
tive freak, are exceedingly natural, and the keen interest of the
narrative is sustained from beginning to end.

“*Sarah Doudney has no superior as a writer of high-toned stories—pure
in style, original in conception, and with skillfully wrought out plots; but

ne Have seen nothing equal in dramatic energy to this book.”—Christian
Leader.

Down the Snow Stairs; or, From Good-night to Good-morning.
By ALIcE Corcran. With Illustrations by Gorpon BROWNE.
12mo, cloth, price 75 cents.

This is a remarkable story: full of vivid fancy and quaint
originality. In its most fantastic imaginings it carries with it a
sense of reality, and derives a singular attraction from that com-
bination of simplicity, originality, and subtle humor, which is so
much appreciated by lively and thoughtful children. Children
of a larger growth will also be deeply interested in Kitty’s strange
journey, and her wonderful experiences.

“Among all the Christmas volumes which the year has brought to our
table this one stands out facile princeps—a gem of the first water, bearing
upon every one of its pages the signet mark of genius. . . . All is told

with such simplicity and perfect naturalness that the dream appears to be a
solid reality. It is indeed a Little Pilgrim’s Progress.”’—Christian Leader.

The Tapestry Room: A Child’s Romance. By Mrs. Moues-
WORTH. Illustrated by WALTER Crang. 12mo, cloth, price

75 cents.

‘Mrs. Molesworth is a charming painter of the nature and ways of children;
and she has done good service in giving us this charming juvenile which will
delight the young people.”— Atheneum. London.
A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 28



Little Miss Peggy: Only a Nursery Story. By Mrs. MoLEs-
wortH. With Illustrations by WALTER CRANE. 12mo, cloth,
price 75 cents.

Mrs. Molesworth’s children are finished studies. She is never
sentimental, but writes common sense in a straightforward man.
ner. A joyous earnest spirit pervades her work, and her sym.
pathy is unbounded. She loves them with her whole heart,
while she lays bare their little minds, and expresses their foibles,
their faults, their virtues, their inward struggles, their concep.
tion of duty, and their instinctive knowledge of the right and
wrong of things. She knows their characters, she understands
their wants, and she desires to help them.

Polly: A New Fashioned Girl. By L. T. MEADE. Illustrated
12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

Few authors have achieved a popularity equal to Mrs. Meade
as a writer of stories for young girls, Her characters are living
beings of flesh and blood, not lay figures of conventional type.
Into the trials and crosses, and everyday experiences, the reader
enters at once with zest and hearty sympathy. While Mrs.
Meade always writes with a high moral purpose, her lessons of
life, purity and nobility of character are rather inculeated by
example than intruded as sermons.

Rosy. By Mrs. Moteswortg. Illustrated by WALTER CRANE,
12mo, cloth, price 75 cents.

Mrs. Molesworth, considering the quality and quantity of her
labors, is the best story-teller for children England has yet
known. This is a bold statement and requires substantiation.
Mrs. Molesworth, during the last six years, has never failed to
occupy a prominent place among the juvenile writers of the
season.

“A very pretty story. .. . The writer knows children and their ways
well. . . . The illustrations are exceedingly well drawn.”—Spectator.
Little Sunshine’s Holiday: A Picture from Life. By Muss

Mutock. Illustrated by WALTER CRANE. 12mo, cloth, price

%5 cents.

“This is a pretty narrative of baby life, describing the sim le doings and
sayings of a very charming and rather precocious child nearly three years
old."—Pall Mall Gazette.

“Will be delightful to those who have nurseries peopled by ‘ Little Sun-
shines’ of their own.”"—Athenceeum.

Esther: A Book for Girls. By Rosa N. Carey. Illustrated,
12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

“She inspires her readers simply by bringing them in contact with the
characters, who are in themselves inspiring Her simple stories are woven

in order to give her an opportunity to describe her characters by their own
conduct in seasons of trial.’"—Chicago Times.
24 A, L. BURT'S PUBLICATIONS.



Sweet Content. By Mrs. Motesworras. Illustrated by W.
Rainey. 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents.

“It seems to me not at all easier to draw a lifelike child than to draw a
lifelike man or woman: Shakespeare and Webster were the only two men of
their age who could do it with perfect delicacy and success. Our own age is
more fortunate, on this single score at least, having a larger and far nobler
proportion of female writers; among whom, since the death of George Eliot,
there is none left whose touch is so exquisite and masterly, whose love is so
thoroughly according to knowledge, whose bright and sweet invention is so
fruitful, so truthful, or so delightful as Mrs. Molesworth.”—A. C. SwINBURNE.

One of a Covey. By the Author of ‘‘Honor Bright,” ‘ Miss
Toosey’s Mission.” With Numerous Illustrations by H. J. A.
Mites. 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents.

“Full of spirit and life, so well sustained throughout that grown-up readers
may enjoy it as much as children. This ‘Covey consists of the twelve
children of a hard-pressed Dr. Partridge. out of which is chosen a little girl
to be adopted by a spoilt, finelady. . . . It is one of the best books of the
season.” —Guardian.

‘We have rarely read a story for boys and girls with greater pleasure.
One of the chief characters would not have disgraced Dickens’ pen.”’—
Literary World.

The Little Princess of Tower Hill. By L. T. Mzapg. Illus-
trated, 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents.

“This is one of the prettiest books for children published, as pretty as a
pond-lily, and quite as fragrant. Nothing could be imagined more attractive
to young people than such a combination of fresh pages and fair pictures;
and while children will rejoice over it—which is much better than crying for
it—it is a book that can be read with pleasure even by older boys and girls.”*
—Boston Advertiser,

Honor Bright ; or, The Four-Leaved Shamrock. By the Author
of ‘“‘One of a Covey,” ‘‘ Miss Toosey’s Mission,” ete. etc.

With full-page Illustrations, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

“It requires a special talent to describe the sayings and doings + saildren,
and the author of ‘Honor Bright,’ ‘One of a Covey,’ possesses yaat tateck
in no small degree."—Literary Churchman.

‘A cheery, sensible, and healthy tale.”°—The Times.

The Cuckoo Clock. By Mrs. MoLesworru. With Illustra.

tions by WALTER CRANE. 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents.

‘‘A beautiful little story. It will be read with delight by every child inte
whose hands it is placed. . . . The author deserves all the praise that han
been, is, and will be bestowed on ‘ The Cuckoo Clock.’ Children’s stories are
peo but one like this is not to be met with every day."—Pall Mat

Fazette.

Girl Neighbors; or, The Old Fashion and the New. By SaraP
TyrLter. With full-page Illustrations by C. T. GARLAND
12mo, cloth, price 75 cents.

‘ One of the most effective and quietly humorous of Miss Tytier’s storie,
‘Girl Neighbors ° is a pleasant comedy, not so much of errory #3 of preqi>
dices got rid of, very healthy, very agreeable, and very weli rvritten.”—
Spectator.
A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS. 25



The Little Lame Prince. By Miss Munoce. Illustrated,
cloth, price 75 cents.

‘*No sweeter—that is the proper word—Christmas story for the little folks
eould easily be found, and it is as delightful for older readers as well. There
is a moral to it which the reader can find out for himself, if he chooses to
think.”—Herald, Cleveland.

The Adventures ‘of a Brownie. As Told to my Child. By
Miss Munock. Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents.

‘*The author of this delightful little book leaves it in doubt all through
whether there actually is such a creature in existence as a Brownie, but she
makes us hope that there might be."—Standard, Chicago.

Only a Girl: A Story of a Quiet Life. A Tale of Brittany.
Adapted from the the French by C. A. Jonzs. Illustrated,
12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

“We can thoroughly recommend this brightly written and homely narra-
rative.’—Saturday Review.

Little Rosebud ; or, Things Will Take a Turn. By BEATRICE
HARRADEN. Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents.

“A most delightful little book. . . . Miss Harraden is so bright, so
healthy, and so natural withal that the book ought, as a matter of duty, to
be added to every girl's library in the land.”—Boston Transcript.

Little Miss Joy. By Emma MArsHALL. Illustrated, 12mo,

cloth, price 75 cents.

“ A very pleasant and instructive story, told by a very charming writer in
such an attractive way as to win favor among its young readers. The illus-
trations add to the beauty of the book.”—Utica Herald.

Little Lucy’s Wonderful Globe. By CuarLorrE M. YONGE.
Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents.

“This story is unique among tales intended for children, alike for pleasant
Instruction, quaintness of humor, gentle pathos, and the subtlety with which
lessons nota and otherwise are conveyed to children, and perhaps to their
seniors as well.’"—The Spectator.

Joan’s Adventures at the North Pole and Elsewhere. By

ALICE CORKRAN. Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price 75 cents.

“ Wonderful as the adventures of Joan are, it must be admitted that they
are very naturally worked out and very plausibly presented. Altogether
this is an excellent story for girls..—Saturday Review.

Count Up the Sunny Days: A Story for Boys and Girls. By
C. A. Jones. With full-page Illustrations, 12mo, cloth, price
75 cents.

“ An unusually good children’s story."—Glasgow Herald. /

Sue andI. By Mrs. O’Reruiy. Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price

75 cents.

“A thoroughly delightful book, full of sound wisdom as well as fun.“=
Athenceum. :
26 A. L. BURT’S PUBLICATIONS.



Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. By Lewis CARROLL.
With 42 Illustrations by JouN TENNIEL. 12mo, cloth, price

75 cents.

“From first to last, almost without exception, this story is delightfully
oes humorous and illustrated in harmony with the story."—New Vork
press.

Celtic Fairy Tales. Edited by Josmpa Jacoss. Illustrated by
J.D. BATTEN. 12mo, cloth, preic $1.00.

‘“A stock of delightful little narratives gathered chiefly from the Celtic-
speaking peasants of Ireland.”—Daiiy Telegraph.

“A perfectly lovely book. And oh! the wonderful pictures inside. Get
this book if you can; it is capital, all through.”—Pall Mall Budget.

English Fairy Tales. Edited by JoserH Jacoss. Illustrated
by J. D. Barren. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

“The tales are simply delightful. No amount of description can do them
justice. The only way is to read the book through from cover to cover.”—
Magazine and Book Review.

‘“The book is intended to correspond to ‘ Grimm’s Fairy Tales,’ and it must
be allowed that its pages fairly rival in interest those of the well-known re-
pository of fol&-lore.’—Sydney Morning Herald.

Indian Fairy Tales. Edited by JosePH JAcoss. Illustrated by

J.D Barren. 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

“Mr. Jacobs brings home to us in a clear and intelligible manner the enor-
mous influence which ‘ Indian Fairy Tales’ have had upon European litera-
ture of the kind.”"—Gloucester Journal.

“ The present combination will be welcomed not alone by the little ones for
whom it is specially combined, but also by children of larger growth and
added years.”—Duaily Telegraph.

The Blue Fairy Book. Edited by ANDREW Lane. Profusely

Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

“The tales are simply delightful. ‘o amount of description can do them
justice. The only way is to read the book through from cover to cover.”—
Magazine and Book Review.

The Green Fairy Book. Edited by ANDREW Lane. Profusely

Illustrated, 12ino, cloth, price $1.00.

“The most delightful book of fairy tales, taking form and contents to-
gether, ever presented to children.”—E. §. Harruanp, in Folk-Lore.

The Yellow Fairy Book. Edited by ANDREW Lane. Profusely
illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

“ Asa collection of fairy tales to delight children of all ages ranks second
to none.” —Daily Graphic (with illustrations).

Through the Looking Glass, and What Alice Found There.

By Lewis Carrouu. With 50 Illustrations by Jomn TRENNIEL.

“A delight alike to the young people and their elders, extremely funny
bcth in text and illustrations.”"—Buston Express.
A. L. BURT'S PUBLICATIONS. 27







The Heir of Redclyffe. By CnartorreM. Yonas. Illustrated,
12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

‘A narrative full of interest from first to last. It is told clearly and in a
straightforward manner and arrests the attention of the reader at once, so
that one feels afresh the unspeakable pathos of the story to the end.”—
London Graphic.

The Dove in the Eagle’s Nest. By CHartorre M. Yonen.
Illastrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

‘Among all the modern writers we believe Miss Yonge first, not in genius,
but in this, that she employs her great abilities for a high and noble purpose.
We know of few modern writers whose works may be so safely commended
as hers.”°—Cleveland Times.

A Sweet Girl Graduate. By L. T. MEApE. Illustrated, 12mo,
cloth, price $1.00.

“ One of this popular author’s best. The characters are well imagined and
drawn. The story moves with plenty of spirit and the interest does not flag
until the end too quickly comes."—Providence Journal.

The Palace Beautiful: A Story for Girls, By L. T, Mmaps.

Illustrated, cloth, 12mo, price $1.00.

_ “A bright and interesting story. The many admirers of Mrs. L. T. Meade
in this country will be delighted with the ‘ Palace Beautiful ’ for more reasons
than one.”—New York Recorder.

A World of Girls: The Story of a School. By L. T. MEADE.
Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.
“One of those wholesome stories which it does one good to read. It will
afford pure delight to her numerous readers.”—Boston Home Journal.
The Lady of the Forest: A Story for Girls. By L. T. MEADE.

Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price €1.00.

‘This story is written in the author’s well-known, fresh and easy style.
All girls fond of reading will be charmed by this well-written story. It is
told with the author’s customary grace and spirit.’—Boston Times.

At the Back of the North Wind. By Grorerk MACDONALD.

Illustrated by GEoraE GRrovsEs, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

“A very pretty story, with much of the freshness and vigor of Mr. Mac-
donald’s earlier work. . . . It is a sweet, earnest, and wholesome fairy
story, and the quaint native humor is delightful. A most delightful volume
for young readers.”—Philadelphia Times.

The Water Babies: A Fairy Tale fora Land Baby. By Caries

Kines ey. Illustrated, 12mo, cloth, price $1.00.

“The strength of his work, as wen as its peculiar charms, consist in his
description of the experiences of a youth with life under water in the luau-
viant wealth of which he revels witb all the ardor of a poetical nature.”—
New York Tribune.
Fireside Series for Girls.

Uniform Cloth Binding. Illustrated.

A carefully selected series of books for ,
girls, written by authors of acknowledged
reputation. The stories are deeply interest-
ing in themselves, and have a moral charm
that emanates from the principal characters;
they teach without preaching, are of lively
interest throughout, and will win the hearts
of all girl readers.

Esther. By Rosa Noucuerrz Carry. Illustrated.
Price $1.00.

A World of Girls: The Story of a School.
By L. T. Meapg. Illustrated. “Price $1.00. eo

The Heir of Redclyffe. By Cuar.orre M. Yonen. Illus. Price $1.00.
ahs Beery ae a Short Life. By Juuiana Horatia Ewine. Illustrated,
rice $1.00.
A Sweet Girl Graduate. By L.T.Meapz. Ilustrated. Price $1.00.
Our Bessie, By Rosa Noucnerre Carzy. Mlustrated. Price $1.00.
Six to Sixteen: A Story for Girls. By Jutiana Horatia Ewina. Ib
lustrat-d. Price $1.00.
The, peve i the Eagle’s Nest. By CuarLorre M. Yonex. Illustrated,
rice $1.00.
Gianetta; A Girl’s Story of Herself. By Rosa MutHotianp. Tus.
trated. Price $1.00.
Jan of the Windmill: A Story of the Plains. By Jutiana Horatia
Ewine. Illustrated. Price $1.00.
Averil. By Rosa Novcuerrs Carey. Illustrated, Price $1.00.
Alice in Wonderland and Alice Through the Looking-Glass. Two
volumes in one. By Lewis CARROLL. Illustrated. Price $1.00.
Merle’s Crusade, By Rosa Novourrrs Carey, Illustrated. Price $1.00.
Girl Neighbors; or, The Old Fashion and the New. By Saran
TyTLeR. Illustrated. Price $1.00.
Polly: A New Fashioned Girl. By L. T. Mmaps. Illus. Price $1.00
Aunt Diana, By Rosa N. Canny. Ilustrated. Price $1.00,
The Water Babies; A Fairy Tale for a Land-Baby. By CHarLEs
Kiyestey. Illustrated. Price $1.00.
At oe Hack of the North Wind. By Gzorez Macponarp. Illustrated.
rice $1.00.
The Chaplet of Pearls; or, The White and Black Ribaumont. By
CHARLOTTE M. Yonen. Illustrated. Price $1.00.
The Days of Bruce: A Story of Scottish History. By Grace Aqur-
LAR. Illustrated. Price $1.00.
The Palace Beautiful: A Story for Girls. By L. T. Meaps. Illus-
trated. Price $1.00.
Margery Merton’s Girlhood. By Attcz Corgran. Illus. Price $1.00
Three Bright Girls: A Story of Chance and Mischance. By ANNIE
E. ARMSTRONG. Illustrated. Price $1.00.
Pythia’s Pupils: The Story of a School. By Eva Harrner. Illus-
trated. Price $1.00.
The Lady of the Forest: A Story for Girls. By L. T. Mane. Illus-
trated. Price $1.00.
Only a Girl: A Tale of Brittany. By C. A. Jonzs. Illus. Price $1.00.
Honor Bright; or, The Four-Leaved Shamrock. By the author of
Miss Toosey’s Mission. Illustrated. Price $1.00.
Under False Colors: A Story from Two Girls? Lives. By Saran
Doupyey. Illustrated. Price $1.00.






THE YALE SERIES OF POETS.

A Selection of Twenty-five
Authors from the Most Cele-
brated Poets of All Nations.

EACH AUTHOR’S POEMS COMPLETE
IN ONE VOLUME.

UNIFORM CLOTH BINDING. PRICE $1.00
PER COPY.



BROWNING, R. LIGHT OF ASIA.

BRYANT. LONGFELLOW.
BURNS. LUCILE.
BYRON. MILTON.
CHAUCER. MOORE.
COLERIDGE. ODYSSEY.
DANTE. POPE.

FAUST. ROSSETTI.
HOOD. SHAKESPEARE.
ILLIAD. SHELLEY.
INGOLDSBY SWINBURNE.

LEGENDS.|} TENNYSON.
KEATS. ~— — | WHITTIER.


THE CONTINENTAL SERIES.

Uniform Cloth Binding. Olivine
Edges.

Extra Illustrated. Price $1.50.

In this series of historical stories each one is
complete in itself, yet taken together they form
one of the most entertaining histories of the Revo-
lution. The utmost care has been exercised to
have them historically correct, and so much of
romance as is used to make the tales stirring is
subordinated to the facts. They have been writ-
ten with the distinct purpose of portraying the
struggle for liberty in romantic form, and while
being in the highest degree interesting stories for
the young, are at the same time especially in-
structive, inasmuch as the greatest possible
amount of information is given.





The Capture of the Laughing Mary. A Story
of Two New York Boys in 1776, as set down by Eliphalet
Willett, and edited by Jamzs Oris. With 8 page illustra-
tions by J. Watson Davis. Extra 12mo, illuminated cloth,
olivine edges, price $1.50.

With Lafayette at Yorktown. A Story of How
Two Boys Joined the Continental Army. By James
Oris. With 8 full page illustrations by George E. Graves.
Extra 12mo, illuminated cloth, olivine edges, price $1.50.

With Warren at Bunker Hill. A Story of the
Siege of Boston. How Ben Scarlett Escaped from Boston
Town, as set down by his Comrade, and edited by James
Ot1s. With 8 full page illustrations by J. Watson Davis.
Extra 12mo, illuminated cloth, olivine edges, price $1.50.

With Washington at Monmouth. A Story of
Three Philadelphia Boys. By Jamus Orrs. With 8 fall
page illustrations by George E. Graves. Extra 12mo,
illuminated cloth, olivine edges, price $1.50.

I a tr
THE MOTHER GOOSE SERIES.



Handsome Cloth Binding,
Illuminated Covers.



A Series of Profusely Ilus-
trated Books for Young
Children.



PRICE, 50 CENTS PER COPY.













Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp, and Other Stories.
Profusely Illustrated. Price 50 cents.

Beauty and the Beast, and Other Stories. Profusely Ilus-
trated. Price 50 cents.

Cinderella; or, The Little Glass Slipper, and Other
Stories. Profusely Illustrated. Price 50 cents.

Jack and the Beanstalk, and Other Stories. Profusely Illus-
trated. Price 50 cents.

Jack the Giant Killer, and Other Stories. Profusely Illus-
trated. Price 50 cents.

Little Red Riding Hood, and Other Stories. .Profusely Illus-
trated. Price 50 cents. .

Mother Goose’s Rhymes. Profusely Illustrated. Price 50
cents.

Mother Hubbard’s Melodies. Profusely Illustrated. Price
50 cents.

Puss in Boots, and Other Stories. Profusely Illustrated. Price
50 cents,

The Sleeping Beauty, and Other Stories. Profusely Illus-
_ trated. Price 50 cents.


_for young boys. The books are profusely illus-

THE LITTLE MEN SERIES.

Uniform Cloth Binding. Profusely
Illustrated.

PRICE 75 CENTS PER COPY.\

This series of boys’ books have been selected
trom the writings of a large number of popular
authors of juvenile stories, and are particularly
adapted to interest and supply attractive reading

trated, and any one seeking to find a book to gi-s
a young boy cannot make a mistake by selecting
from the following list of titles.







Black Beauty. The Autobiography of a Horse. By Anna Srwew, Tlus-
trated, cloth, price 75 cents.

Carrots: Just a Little Boy. By Mrs. Motzsworrs. Illustrated, cloth,
price 75 cents.

@hunk, Fuskey and Snout. A Story of Wild Pigs for Little People.
By Geratp Youna. Ilustrated, cloth, price 75 cents.

Daddy’s Boy. By L. T. Mzapng. Illustrated, cloth, price 75 cepts.
Pp

Flat Iron for a Farthing, A. The Story of an Only Son. By Juniana
Horatia Ewing. Illustrated, cloth, price 75 cents.

Flock of Four, A. A Story for Boys and Girls. By Ismay THorn, Ib
lustrated, clotn, price 75 cents.

Geoff and Jim. A Story of School Life. By Ismay THorn. [Iilustrated.
cloth, price 75 cents.

Jack: A Topsy Turvy Story. By C. M. ‘Crawnry-Borvey. Illustrated,
cloth, price 75 cents.

Veckanapee: By Juniana Horatia Ewina. Illustrated, cloth, price 75
cents.

Larry’s Luck. By the author of ‘‘ Miss Toosey’s Mission,” “'Tiom’s Opin-
ion.” Illustrated, cloth, price 75 cents.

Little Ivan’s Hero. A Story of Child Life. By Hmeten Minman. Illus-
trated, cloth, price 75 cents.

Mopsa the Fairy. A Fairy Story for Boys. By Jean IncELow. Ulus-
trated, cloth, price 75 cents.

My Dog Plato: His Adventures and Impressions. By M. H. CornwaLh
Leca. Illustrated, cloth, price 75 cents.

Peter the Pilgrim. The Story of a Boy and His Pet Rabbit. By L. 1.
Meapvs. Ulustrated. cloth, price 75 cents.

Prince Prigio, Adventures of. By AnprEw Lana. Illustrated, cloth,
price 75 cents.

Robin’s Ride. A Story for Children. By Evninor D, Apams. Illustrated,
cloth, price 75 cents.

Squib and His Friends. A Story for Children. By Eien Evrererr
Green. Illustrated, cloth, price 75 cents,

Tom’s Opinion. The Story of a Boys’ School. By the author of ‘‘ Miss
Toosey’s Mission.” Tllustrated, cloth, price 75 cents.

We and the World, A Story for Boys. By Juniana Horatis “WING.
Illustrated. cloth, price 75 cents.

Wonder Book, A: For Boys and Girls. Comprising Stories of Ciassical
Fables. By NATHANIEL HawrHorne. Illustrated, cloth, price 75 cents.





For sale by all booksellers. or sent postpaid on receipt of price by the pub«
lisher, A. L. BURT, 97 Reade Street, New York.
THE PRINCETON SERIES.

EACH COMPLETE IN ONE VOLUME.



Uniform Cloth Binding. Price, $1.25.
A SERIES OF STANDARD WORKS

POPULAR AUTHORS.

EMBRACING

Fiction, History, Essays, Etc.

Printed from large type, on good
paper, and bound in handsome cloth
binding.







Les Miserables. A Novel. By Vicror Huao. Translated from
the original French by CHARLES E. WILBouR. Cloth. Illus-
trated. Price, $1.25.

Charles O'Malley, the Irish Dragoon. By CHartEes LEVER,
Cloth. Illustrated. Price, $1.25.

The French Revolution. A History by THomas CARLYLE. Cloth,
Illustrated. Price, $1.25.

The Count of Monte Cristo. By ALEXANDRE Dumas. Cloth.
Illustrated, Price, $1.25.

Montaigne’s Essays. Translated by CHARLES CorTon and edited
by W. Carew Hazuirr. Cloth. Price, $1.25.

The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling. By Henry Frevprne.
Cloth. Price, $1.25.

Harry Lorrequer. By Cnyartus Lever. Cloth. Illustrated.
Price, $1 25.

Adventures of Don Quixote de la Mancha, From the Spanish
of MIGUEL DE CERVANTES. Cloth. Illustrated. Price, $1.25,

Ten + housand a Year, By SAMUEL WARREN. Cloth. Price,

1.25.

Wilhelm Meister’s Apprenticeship and Travels. From ths
German of GorrHE. By THomas CarLyLE. Cloth. Price,
$1.25.

The Mysteries of Paris, By Eucenr Suz. Cloth. Illustrated.
Price, $1.25.

The Wandering Jew. By Evernr Sur. Cloth. Illustrated.
Price, $1.25.

A History of Our Own Times. From the Ascension of Queen
Victoria to the General Election of 1880. By Justin Mo-
CaRTHY, M. P. Cloth. Illustrated. Price, $1.25.

For sale by all booksellers, or sent postpaid on receipt of price by the pub-
lisher, A. L, BURT, 97 Reade Street, New York.


THE HENTY SERIES FOR BOYS

Uniform Cloth Binding. Price $1.00.

“Wherever English is spoken one imagines that Mr. Henty’s name is known.
One cannot enter a schoolroom or look at a boy’s bookshelf without seein
half a dozen of the famous volumes. Mr. Henty is no doubt the most successfu
writer for boys, and the one to whose new volumes they look forward every
Christmas with most pleasure.”—Review of Reviews.

Bonnie Prince Charlie: A Tale of Fontenoy and Culloden. By G. A.
Henry. With Illustrations by Gordon Browne. Price $1.00.

With Clive in India; or, The Beginnings of an Empire. By G. A. Henry, .
With Illustrations by Gordon Browne. Price $1.00.

The Dragon and the Raven; or, The Days of King Alfred. By G. A.
Henry. With Illustrations by C. J. Staniland, R.I. Price $1.00.

The Young Carthaginian: A Story of the Times of Hannibal. By G. A.
Henxty. With Illustratious by C. J. Staniland, R.I. Price $1.00.

The Lion of the North: A Tale of Gustavus Adolphus and the Wars of
Religion. By G. A. Henry. With Illustrations by John Schénberg.

With Lee in Virginia: A Story of the American Civil War. By G A.
Henty. With Illustrations by Gordon Browne. Price $1.00.

By England’s Aid; or, The Freeing of the Netherlands. (1585-1604). By
G. A. Henty. With Illustrations by Alfred Pearse. Price $1.00.

By Pike and Dyke: A Tale of the Rise of the Dutch Republic. By G. A,
Henry. With Illustrations by Maynard Brown. Price $1.00.

Captain Bayley’s Heir: A Tale of the Gold Fields of California. By
G. A. Henty. With Thustrations by H. M. Paget. Price $1.00.

Under Drake’s Flag: A Tale of the Spanish Main. By G. A. Henty, With
Illustrations by Gordon Browne. Price $1.00.

In Freedom’s Cause: A Story of Wallace and Bruce. By G. A. Henry.
With Illustrations by Gordon Browne. Price $1.00.

In the Reign of Terror: The Adventures of a Westminster Boy. By G. A.
Fenty. With Illustrations by John Schinberg. Price $1.00.

True to the Old Flag: A Tale of the American War of Independence. With
12 page Illustrations by Gordon Browne. Price $1.00. .

With Wolfe in Canada; or, The Winning of a Continent. With 12 page
Iustrations by Gordon Browne. Price $1.00.

By Right of Conquest; or, With Cortez in Mexico. With 6 page Illustra
tions by W. S. Stacey. Price $1.00.

St. George for England: A Tale of Cressy and Poitiers. With 8 page Il-
lustrations by Gordon Browne. Price $1.00.

The Bravest of the Brave: With Peterborough in Spain. With 8 page
Illustrations by H. M. Paget. Price $1.00.

For Name and Fame; or, Through Afghan Passes. With 8 page Ilustra-
tions by Gordon Browne. Price $1.00. /

The Cat of Bubastes: A Story of Ancient Egypt. With5 page Illustrations
by J. R. Weguelin. Price $1.00.

For the Temple: A Tale of the Fall of Jerusalem. With 10 page Ilustra-
tions by S. J. Solomon. Price $1.00.

The Lion of St. Mark: A Story of Venice in the Fourteenth Century, With
10 page Illustrations by Gordon Browne. Price $1.00.

By Sheer Pluck: A Tale of the Ashanti War. With 8 page Illustrations by
Gordon Browne. Price $1.00.

A Final Reckoning: A Tale of Bush Life in Australia. With 8 page Illus-
trations by W. B. Wollen. Price $1.00.

Facing Death: A Tale of the Coal Mines. With 8 page Illustrations by
Gordon Browne. Price $1.00.

Maori and Settler: A Story of the New Zealand War. With 5 page Illus:
trations by Alfred Pearse. Price $1.00.



Ifor sale by all booksellers, or sent postpaid on receipt of price by the pub:
lisher, A. I. BURT, 97 Reade Street, New York.
THE ROUND TABLE SERIES.

25 Yolumes. Ornamental Cloth Binding.

Illustrated. Price $1.00 per Copy.

The Round Table Series of Stories are written
by such famous writers for boys as Gordon Sta-
bles, Robert Leighton, Harry Collingwood, Geo.
Manville Fenn, Jules Verne, ete.

These stories are replete with tales of hero-
ism by land and sea, of the most romantic kind,
abounding in scenes of narrow escapes, encounters
with wild animals, the finding of treasure trove,
descriptions of domestic life in far-away lands,
etc. These are thrilling stories, possessing all the
value of truth, with all the charm of the most
daring romance.

Boris the Bear Hunter. A Tale of Peter the
Great and His Times. By Frep WISHAW.
12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00, Se TOT =

Congo Rovers, The. A Story of the Slave Squadron, By Harry Couine-
woop. 12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00,

Erling the Bold. A Tale of the Norse Sea Kings. By R. M. BaLLanryne.
__, l2mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00. * 4
Dick Sand; or, A Captain at Fifteen. By JuLes VERNE. 12mo, cloth,

illustrated, price $1.00.

Every aneht a Sailor. By Gorpon Srasies. 12mo, eloth, illustrated, price





















Golden Galleon, The. A Narrative of Adventure on Her Majesty’s Ship the
_Revenge. By Ropert LeicHron. 12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00.
Gorilla Hunters, The. A Tale of the Wilds of Africa. By R. M. Bauuan-
TYNE. 12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00.

Green Mountain Boys. A Tale of the Early Settlement of Vermont. By
D. P. THompson. 12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00.

Grettir the Outlaw. A Story of Iceland. By S. Bariyc-Goutp. 12mo,
cloth, illustrated, price $1.00.

How Jack Mackenzie Won His Epaulettes. A Story of the Crimean
War. By Gorpon Srasius. 12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00.

King’s Pardon, The. A Story of Land ‘and Sea. By Rosert OVERTON.
12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00, : :

Log of the Flying Fish, The. A. Story of Peril and Adventure. By Harry
CoLLiIncwoop. 12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00.

Masterman Ready; or The Wreck of the Pacific. By Caprain Mar-

, _kyaT, 12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00.

Michael Strogoif; or, The Courier of the Czar. By Junes Varn. 12mo,
cloth, illustrated, price $1.00.

Mother Carey’s Chicken. Her Voyage to the Unknown Isle. By GEORGE
MaNnviILLe Fenn. 12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1 00.

Nat the Naturalist. A Boy’s Adventures in the Fastern Seas. By GEorGE
MANVILLE Fenn, 12mo, cloth, Illustrated, price $1.00.
Olaf the Glorious. A Story of the Viking Age. By Rozperr Lerewron.
12mo. cloth, illustrated, price, $1.00 J
Story of John G. Paton; or, Thirty Years Among the South Sea Cannibals.
By Rav. Jams Parox. 12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00. 2

To Greenland and the Pole. A Story of Adventure in the Arctic Regions.
By Gorbon Stasies. 12mo, cloth, illistrated, price $1.00.

Ywo Thousand Years Ago. The Adventures of a Roman Boy. By Pror.

é A.J. CHuRCH. 12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00. P

Two Years Before the Mast. A Personal Narrative of Life at Sea. By R.
H. Dana, Jr. 12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00.

Under the Lone Star. A Story of the Revolution in Nicaragua. By HERBERT
Haynns. 12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00. .

Wreck of the Golden Fleece, The Story of a North Sea Fisher Boy. By
Roserr Leiegnron. 12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00.

Young Rajah, The. A Story of Indian Life. By W. H. G. Kryaston. 12mo,
cloth, illustrated, price $1.00.

Yussuf the Guide. A Story of Adventure in Asia Minor. By Groree Man-
VILLE FENN. 12mo, cloth, illustrated, price $1.00,



For sale by all booksellers, or sent postpaid on receipt of price by
the publisher, A. L, BURT, 97 Meade Street, New York.
THE IDEAL SERIES.

Books for Boys by G. A. Henty.

Uniform Cloth Binding. Price 75 Cents,

‘Mr, Henty is the King of Story Tellers for boys.
All boys will read his stories with eager and unflag-
ging interest. The episodes areall graphic, exciting,
realistic; in all Mr. Henty’s books the tendency is
to the formation of an honorable, manly, and even
heroic character.”

Bonnie Prince Charlie: A Tale of Fontenoy
and Culloden. By G. A. Henty. Price 75 cents.
In Times of Peril: A Tale of India. By G. A.
Henty. Price 75 cents.
With Clive in India; or, The Beginnings of
an Empire. By G. A. Henry. Price 75 cents.
The Dragon and the Raven; or, The Days
of King Alfred. By G. A. Henry. Price 75 cents.
The Young Carthaginian: A Story of the Times of Hannibal. By G. A.
Henry. Price 75 cents.
The Cornet of Horse: A Tale of Marlborough’s Wars, By G. A. Henry.
Price 75 cents.
With Lee in Virginia: A Story of the American Civil War. By G. A.
Henry. Price 75 cents.
By England’s Aid; or, The Freeing of the Netherlands (1585-1604). By G. A.
Henty. Price 75 cents.
ane Boy Knight: A Tale of the Crusades. By G. A. Henry. Price 75
cents.
By Pike and Dyke: A Tale of the Rise of the Dutch Republic. By G. A.
Henty. Price 75 cents.
Captain Bayley’s Heir: A Tale of the Gold Fields of California. By
G. A. Henty. Price 75 cents.
gguuaee Drake’s Flag: A Tale of the Spanish Main. By G. A. Henty. Price
5 cents.
In Freedom’s Cause: A Story of Wallace and Bruce. By G. A. Henry.
Price 75 cents.
In the Reign of Terror: The Adventures of a Westminster Boy. By G. A.
Henry. Price 75 cents.
True to the Old Flag: A Tale of the American War of Independence. By
G. A. Henty. Price 75 cents.
With Wolfe in Canada; or, The Winning of a Continent. By G. A. Henty.
Price 75 cents.
The Young Buglers: A Tale of the Peninsular War. By G. A. Henry.
Price 75 cents. :
By Right of Conquest; or, With Cortez in Mexico. By G. A. Henry.
Price 75 cents.
St. George for England: A Tate of Cressy and Poitiers. By G. A. Henry.
Price 75 cents.
The Bravest of the Brave: With Peterborough inSpain. By G. A. Henry.
Price 75 cents.
For Name and Fame; or, Through Afghan Passes. By G. A. Henry.
Price 75 cents. ‘
The Young Colonists: A Story of Life and War in South Africa. By G. A.
Henry. Price 75 cents.
The Lion of St. Mark: A Story of Venice in the Fourteenth Century. By
G. A. Henty. Price 75 cents. :
were the Fray: A Story of the Luddite Riots. By G. A. Henry. Price
75 cents,
Orange and Green: A Tale of the Boyne and Limerick. By G. A. Henry.
Price 75 cents.





For sale by all booksellers, or sent postpaid on receipt of price by the pub-
lisher, A. L. BURT, 97 Reade Street, New York,