"Those are certainly clouds, not smoke," said Whopper. "Oh, I hope it does rain and puts out the fire. I shouldn't like to see this fine forest destroyed."
"Nor I," added Snap.
"If it is burned down it will be Mr. Felps's loss," came from Giant.
"He said he had bought the district up, you'll remember."
As they pulled along, well away from the shore, they suddenly heard a mad cry for aid.
"What's that?" asked Snap.
"A man on shore!" ejaculated Whopper. "See him—-over on yonder rocks!"
"It is that Barrock!" said Shep.
"Help me!" came from the man, who was waving his arms wildly. "Take me off, or I'll be burnt up!"
"Let us row to him," said Snap.
The rowboat was turned in toward shore without delay. In the meantime, to escape the smoke and burning brands, Lusher Barrock rushed into the lake up to his knees.