"I believe some of 'em are following us," said Johnston.

Fred listened, but his straining ear could detect nothing to warrant
such an alarming conclusion, and he so stated.

The sailor became convinced that possibly he was mistaken. There is no
law governing noises at night, and it might be that he had misjudged
the rustling of a branch or possibly the stealthy footsteps of some
wild animal.

Not entirely convinced, however, that his companion was mistaken, Fred
once more resumed the advance, trying to perform the difficult task of
giving as much attention to the rear as the front.

If the savages suspected the presence of others, they would be likely
to tread so lightly that their footfalls could not be heard; but
inasmuch as neither of the whites could believe they had even the most
shadowy knowledge of them, they relied more on hearing than sight.

Suddenly Fred started and almost uttered an exclamation. In his
nervous, apprehensive state, he was sure that one of their dusky foes
had leaped from the side of the path and was crouching in front.

He drew his pistol and waited for the assault, which he was confident
would come the next moment; but the seconds passed and all remained
profoundly still.

With his weapon ready for instant use, he advanced a pace or two,
touching the sailor as a command for him to remain motionless; but the