Page:Adrift in the Pacific, Sampson Low, 1889.djvu/135

Rh If we keep along the shore of the lake, there is much less chance of our meeting with an obstacle."

"And then," added Cross," it is important that we should explore the course of East River."

"Evidently," said Donagan, "for the stream gives us direct communication between the coast and Family Lake. Besides, as we go down it, we can explore the forest on either side."

This point being decided, they set off at a good pace. There was a narrow path some three or four feet above the level of the lake, and along it ran the line of sandhills. As the sun rose, it became evident that in a few miles the scenery would change. And, in fact, about eleven o'clock they stopped for lunch by a little creek under the shade of some huge beech-trees, whence, as far as the eye could reach towards the east, rose a confused mass of verdure to mark the horizon.

An agouti, shot by Wilcox during the morning, served for the meal, and was fairly well cooked by Cross, who was the Moko of the expedition. The meal over, Donagan and his friends were afoot again. The forest, which bordered the lake, consisted of similar trees to those in Trap Woods, but the evergreen varieties were in greater number. There were many more pines, spruces, and green oaks than birches or beeches, and all were of superb dimensions. To his great satisfaction, Donagan found that the fauna was quite as varied as that of the rest of the island. Guanacos and vicugnas were frequently seen, and a flock of nandus was observed satisfying their thirst. Hares, maras, tucutucos, peccaries, and feathered game abounded in the thickets.

About six o'clock a halt was made. The bank was cut through by a stream which ran out of the lake. This ought to have been, and was, East River. It was easily recognized, as Donagan found the traces of the fire on the spot where Briant had encamped during his expedition with Jack and Moko. To camp in the same place, light a fire on the ashes, and sleep under the