a sharp look-out for the path that led to the post; when suddenly the
report of a gun burst from an adjoining hill. At the same instant, I
observed a net pole standing in the water at the bottom of a small
bay close by, and directed my steps towards it; when on approaching
it I discovered a broad path ascending from the water's edge, and
immediately after the buildings of a sugar camp.

Allowing the party on the hill to blaze away, I followed the
path, and in less than half-an-hour came out upon the Rivière aux
Lièvres, immediately opposite the house. I perceived the men of the
establishment, with some Indians, all in a bustle; some preparing to
embark in a canoe, others firing. I sat down to gaze for a moment on
the most interesting scene I had ever witnessed, and then gave a loud
cry, which it was evident nobody heard, although the river is not more
than a stone-cast across. I made a second effort with better success.
The Indians raised a shout of triumph; the men hallooed,

"Le voilà! le voilà! Je le vois! Je le vois à l'autre bord! Embarquez!
embarquez!"

A few minutes more, and I found myself restored to at best a prolonged
life of misery and exile. Let it not be inferred from this expression
that I felt ungrateful for my deliverance; on the contrary, my escape
from a death so lingering and terrible made a deep impression upon my
mind. I afterwards gave a holiday to my men in remembrance of it, and
made them all happy for one day.