through the wood; but it appears to me to be very dark."

"I was just thinking the same," replied Ready. "I should not wonder if
there is a storm brewing up; and if so, the sooner we are back again
the better."

As they proceeded, the rustling and waving of the boughs of the trees,
and ever and anon a gust of wind, followed by a moaning and creaking
sound, proved that such was the fact; and as they emerged from the
grove, they perceived that the sky, as it became visible to them, was
of one dark leaden hue, and no longer of the brilliant blue which it
usually had presented to their sight.

"There is indeed a gale coming on," said Ready, as they cleared the
wood: "let us go on to the tents as fast as possible, for we must see
that all is as secure as we can make it."

The dogs now bounded forward; and at their appearance at the tents Mr.
Seagrave and Juno came out, and seeing Ready and William advancing,
made known the welcome tidings to Mrs. Seagrave, who, with the
children, had remained within. In a moment more William was pressed in
his mother's arms.

"I am glad that you are come back, Ready," said Mr. Seagrave, shaking
him by the hand after he had embraced William, "for I fear that bad
weather is coming on."

"I am sure of it," replied Ready, "and we must expect a blusterous
night. This will be one of the storms which are forerunners of the
rainy season. However, we have good news for you, and must only take