named Pierre, set out for the Blue Hills. They

numbered twenty men, and expected to be absent three

days, for they merely went to reconnoitre, not to trap.

Neither Joe nor Henri was of this party, both having

been out hunting when it was organized; but Crusoe

and Charlie were, of course.

Pierre, although a brave and trusty man, was of a

sour, angry disposition, and not a favourite with Dick;

but the latter resolved to enjoy himself, and disregard

his sulky comrade. Being so well mounted, he not unfrequently