His spirits were still at the high key to which they had been raised by the events of the night.

Both he and Tayoga had enjoyed many hours of rest in the canoe, and now they were keen and strong for the day's work.

So, it was long after dawn when they stopped paddling, and pushed their prow into a little cove.
"And now," said Robert, "I think we can land, dress, and cook some of this precious deer, which we have brought with us in spite of everything." Their clothing had been dried by the sun, and they resumed it.

Then, taking all risks, they lighted a fire, broiled tender steaks and ate like giants who had finished great labors.
"I think," said Tayoga, "that when we proceed a few miles farther it will be better to leave the canoe.

It is likely that as we advance the river will become narrower, and we would be an easy target for a shot from the bank." "I don't like to abandon a canoe which has brought us safely across the lake." "We will put it away where it can await our coming another time.