But so thrilling had their adventures been since they had boarded the raft up the river, that none in the party could sleep till near morning.
When morning arrived a hearty breakfast was made from a doe shot by Jack, and then a consultation was held as to what course to pursue.
"There is one thing certain," said Prof. Drearland, "we would never be able to reach the coast if we started back the way we came. My advice is to keep on until we strike some civilized people."
"Here are hoof prints!" Van exclaimed, suddenly. "That proves that Doc Clancy made good his escape. Where he can go, we surely can, so we will follow the trail."
Sure enough, there was the trail made by two horses, leading on through the wild forest.
The sun was not over an hour high when the party set out once more.
"How far do you think we have traveled since we left the coast?" said Jack, addressing the professor.
"About eight hundred miles," was the reply.
"That are what I call somethin' great," spoke up Lank Edwards. "Just think of it! Eight hundred miles through ther wildest country on ther face of ther earth, an' only lost one man! An' look what we have passed through, too. It is enough ter fill a book, I reckon."