Sail was lowered and the sloop allowed to drift in as close as the monster would permit.

As soon as he raised his great head and showed signs of uneasiness, the man forward let go the anchor and the crew pretended to busy themselves about the deck without regarding his presence.

For a few moments he hung his ponderous body from side to side and settled down to sleep again.

He was not disturbed for an hour or more and then Paul ordered his men to get ready.

Raising his carbine, he fired over the head of the lion.