CHAPTER XXXVI.
The next day the Ammi were startled at the sight of a strange ape, which was at first taken for one of the Lali, and they thought that the rest would soon be upon them. He was soon seen, however, to be of a different species, and so was allowed to pass unmolested. Next a whole group of apes appeared; but, as they were small and apparently peaceable, they produced no consternation. It was deemed best, however, to make a reconnoisance; and so Pounder and Cocoanut-scooper each climbed a tree to examine the surrounding country.
They reported the Swamp full of apes, which wandered about in groups apparently without purpose. There were generally a male and three or four females together.
These were some of the immigrants which had recently come from the north, and were going south to escape the cold. They had remained a few days with the Lali, and were now scattering in all directions. The Lali themselves, they said, had all determined to migrate.
The Ammi, being therefore relieved of their fears, now determined to return to the battle-field. For, as the reënforcements of the Lali had dispersed, they thought they could safely fight them again.
They accordingly started back toward the Lali with renewed courage. The cold was still increasing, and the waters of the Swamp through which they had come were frozen over. For most of the way they walked on ice, which made their return easy. They found some animals and birds along the route, which had been frozen to death, of which they ate as they went, and from which they re-supplied their stores.