Brawn went galloping on in front in a very excited manner, often returning and barking wildly at the horses as if to hurry them on.
Throughout that forenoon they journeyed by the trail, which was now distinct enough, and led through the jungle and forest.
They came out on to a clearing about one o'clock. Here was water in abundance, and as they were all thoroughly exhausted, they threw themselves down by the spring to quench their thirst and rest.
Bill made haste now to deal out the provisions, and after an hour, during which time most of them slept, they resumed their journey.
A mile or two farther on they came to a sight which almost froze their blood.
In the middle of a clearing or glade stood a great tree. It was hollowed out at one side, and against this was still a heap of half-charred wood, evidently the remains of a fierce fire, though every ember had died black out.
Here was poor Peggy's other shoe. That too was bloody.
And here was a pool of coagulated blood, with huge rhinoceros beetles busy at their work of excavation. Portions or rags of dress also!
It was truly an awful sight!
Roland reined up his horse, and placed his right hand over his eyes.