THE MYSTIC VOYAGE The long stay in the windrow served Robert well, more than atoning for the drain made upon his strength by their rapid flight.

In three or four hours he was back in his normal state, and he felt proudly that he was now as good as he had ever been.

The night, as they had expected, was cold, and he was thankful that he had hung on to the buffalo robe, in which he wrapped himself once more, while Tayoga was snug between two big blankets.
Robert dozed, but he was awakened by something stirring near them, and he sat up with his finger on the trigger of his rifle.

The Onondaga was already listening and watching, ready with his weapon.

Presently the white youth heard his companion laughing softly, and his own tension relaxed, as he knew Tayoga would not laugh without good cause.
"It is a bear," said Tayoga, "and he has a lair in the windrow, not more than twenty feet away.