"I think so," replied Jack. "When we left the river we struck straight back for a little distance then turned directly to our left and have followed nearly a straight course since. I have seen the stars every little while and I'm sure I could find my way back."
"We're going against the wind, aren't we?" questioned Tom.
"Yes, what little wind there is," replied Jack, "Why?"
"Oh, nothing. I just get foolish notions in my head, that's all."
"What's the foolish notion, now, Tom?" queried Jack in a kindly tone. "Tell us what it is, man. Maybe it is worth while."
"Well, just notice Rowdy, here. He's mighty uneasy and has been snuffing into the air for some little time. Just now as I took a deep breath I thought I smelled smoke and with it came an odor of burning flesh. It was too heavy to be merely the remains of a dinner thrown into a fire. I was just thinking that some accident--"
"I don't think so," replied Jack. "At least we won't think that until we have to. It just can't be so," he added.
"It's getting mighty dark in here," stated Tom. "I wish it would lighten up a bit. That's a fire ahead there."
"Whar y'all gwine?" A giant negro barred the path.