She was, no doubt, loaded with food and prospecting tools, and Thirlwell had gained an important advantage by setting her adrift, since Stormont would not venture farther north without supplies.

He had probably some stores in camp and would find the canoe, but if she stranded on a beach far up the lake, the search might cost some time.

The delay would give Thirlwell a longer start.
He had fitted the new planks in his canoes and when he got back wakened the _Metis_ and melted the caulking gum.

By daybreak the seams were hard and after a hurried breakfast the party paddled across the lake.

He would sooner have waited to see if Stormont would try to retaliate, but this would be rash.