This
evidently marked the object of their search. Then those familiar sounds
made by goats, fowls, and pigs were heard. Crossing the dell they
advanced cautiously in the direction of the light. They had not gone
far, however, when an opening in the woods was discovered, in the centre
of which a small, rude cabin, built of stones and mud, stood. A bright
fire was burning inside, smoke was issuing from the rude chimney, and
the light shining through two square openings in the sides, was
reflecting curiously over the scene outside.
Again the three men halted, and stood viewing the scene in silence, now
hoping, now fearing, now wondering what sort of beings inhabited this
strange place. Still the domestic animals kept up those noises, so
familiar to Tite's ear when at home. And these were broken at intervals
by what seemed the barking of a wolf. Now a strange and shadowy figure
passed and repassed in the cabin, its uncouth form reflecting every few
seconds in the light. Should they advance, enter the cabin, and see who
this strange being was, or return to the beach and wait until morning?
This was the question which occupied their thoughts now.
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