"It would be foolish to use our strength, until we know what we are using it for.

It's certain that Manitou intends to let us fend for ourselves because the night is lightening, which is a hard thing for fugitives." The clouds floated away toward the north, a star came out, then another, and then a cluster, the lofty shores on either side rose up clear and distinct, no longer vague black walls, the surface of the water turned to gray, but it was still swept by a heavy swell, in which the canoe rocked.

Willet finally suggested that they pull to a small island lying on their right, and anchor in the heavy foliage overhanging the water.
"If it grows much lighter they'll be able to see us from the cliffs," he said, "and for us now situated as we are the most important of all things is to hide." It was a tiny island, not more than a quarter of an acre in size, but it was covered with heavy forest, and they found refuge among the long boughs that touched the water, where they rested in silence, while more stars came out, throwing a silver radiance over the lake.

The three were silent and Robert watched the western light that lay farthest south.

It seemed to be about two miles away, and, as he looked he saw it grow, until he became convinced that it was no longer a light, but a fire.
"What is the meaning of it ?" he asked, calling the attention of Willet.
The hunter looked for a while before replying.