They have taken the canoe out into the lake.

We must swim in search of it." "And if we don't find it ?" "Then we drown, but O Dagaeoga, death in the water is better than death in the fires that Tandakora will kindle." "We might escape into the woods." "Warriors who have come upon our trail are there, and would fall upon us at once.

The attack by the two who failed proves their presence." "Then, Tayoga, we must take the perilous chance and swim for the canoe." "It is so, Dagaeoga." Both were splendid swimmers, even with their clothes on, and, wading out until the water was above their waists, they began to swim with strong and steady strokes toward the middle of the lake, following with exactness the course of the wind.

All the time they sought with anxious eyes through the dusk for a darker shadow that might be the canoe.

The wind rose rapidly, and now and then the crest of a wave dashed over them.