Finally he determined to make an attempt to gain his freedom.
Cautiously and as noiselessly as possible he began to wriggle away, inch by inch, from Bill, and toward the fire.

Several times he fancied the men moved restlessly in their sleep, but when he looked toward them they appeared to be still sleeping heavily.

On each occasion, however, he lay still until he became wholly satisfied that he had been mistaken and that they had not been disturbed.
Little by little he edged away until at length he was well outside the lean-to.

His efforts were painful and slow, but in the course of half an hour he was near enough to the end of the log to touch it with his bound feet.

His exertions had set his blood in motion and inspired him with hope of success.
With much care and patience he pushed the stick until he was able to rest the string, where it crossed between his ankles, upon the glowing end.