among sharks."

"I forgot to say, that the lads always took capstan-bars, or gunners'
handspikes, or crows with them, to rap the beasts over the noses
if they got to be troublesome. No, no, I have no liking for bears
and wolves, though a whale, in my eye, is very much the same sort
of fish as a red herring after it is dried and salted. Mabel and
I had better stick to the canoe."

"Mabel would do well to change canoes," added Jasper. "This of
mine is empty, and even Pathfinder will allow that my eye is surer
than his own on the water."

"That I will, cheerfully, boy. The water belongs to your gifts,
and no one will deny that you have improved them to the utmost.
You are right enough in believing that the Sergeant's daughter will
be safer in your canoe than in this; and though I would gladly keep
her near myself, I have her welfare too much at heart not to give
her honest advice. Bring your canoe close alongside, Jasper, and
I will give you what you must consider as a precious treasure."

"I do so consider it," returned the youth, not losing a moment in
complying with the request; when Mabel passed from one canoe to the
other taking her seat on the effects which had hitherto composed
its sole cargo.

As soon as this arrangement was made, the canoes separated a short
distance, and the paddles were used, though with great care to
avoid making any noise. The conversation gradually ceased; and
as the dreaded rift was approached, all became impressed with the