So many people were about that they were likely to be seen, and they returned through the forest to the cypress cove in which "The Galleon" lay hidden.

Here, it was agreed that they should go forth later in the day on another tour of inspection, re-inforced by Tom Ross, while Long Jim and Paul should remain to guard the boat and their precious stores.
When the three had gone, Long Jim sat on the edge of the boat and looked around at the sluggish waters of the bayou, the sad cypresses, and the drooping live oaks.

An ugly water snake twined its slimy length just within the edge of the bayou, and the odor of the still forest about them was heavy and oppressive.
Long Jim took a long, comprehensive look, and then heaved a deep sigh.
"What's the matter ?" asked Paul.
"I don't think the country and the climate agree with me," replied Long Jim lugubriously.

"I wuz never so fur south afore, an' I'm a delicate plant, I am.

I need the snow and the north wind to keep me fresh an' bloomin'.