and patted Paul joyfully on the shoulder.

"Ain't you noticed nothin', Paul?" he asked.

"I've noticed a lot of river, and a fine little fleet on it."

"But somethin' better than that. Look at the trees, Paul, all along on
either side, an' not a house in sight, an' not a human bein' 'cept
ourselves, not a single trail uv smoke to dirty the sky. Nothin' but the
woods ez God made 'em. I tell you, Paul, it's pow'ful fine jest to live!"

Paul shared his enthusiasm, but his feelings went further. Beyond a doubt
they had been successful in their great journey to the south, but another
and large purpose was yet left. Their task had brought them into contact
with the world outside, and Paul devoutly hoped that the supply train
would reach Fort Pitt in time.

The day went smoothly on. The fleet kept its formation something, like
that of an arrow, with Adam Colfax's boat the point of the arrow, and
those containing the five just behind. The river assumed a wholly
wilderness aspect. Spanish or French boats were few and they gave the
fleet a wide berth. Wild fowl swarmed once more, and they saw a bear on
the bank regarding them with a half wise, half comic countenance.

When the sun was low the boats containing the five were turned toward the
land. There they found a cove in which the boats could be safely tied and
a fine grove in which they could cook, and which would also furnish a good
place for those who wished to sleep ashore. Henry Ware and Shif'less Sol
scouted in the country about but saw no sign of anything that might
disturb.