This page has been validated.

CHAPTER XIV


A JOURNEY OVER THE SIERRA MADRE


Carrying the cormorant between them, for the bird was as big as a turkey and correspondingly heavy, they lost no time in hurrying from the beach and plunging into the heart of the woods.

"The natives must have heard that shot, if they are within half a mile of the place," said Walter, "and the best we can do is to get out of the neighborhood."

Their walk brought them to a small brook, and following this, they presently reached a hollow where, between two large rocks, there was a spring of pure cold water. There was plenty of shelter at hand, and this they concluded, therefore, to make their temporary camp.

The cormorant was speedily picked and cleaned, and the young sailors tied the bird up in several big leaves, wound with the rope-like vines which were handy. Then a fireplace was made of stones, the

134