Before time was allowed
for remonstrance, the old man, who had continued during the whole
scene like one much at a loss how to proceed, though also like one who
was rather perplexed than alarmed, suddenly assumed a decided air, as
if he no longer doubted on the course it was most advisable to pursue.
"It is time to be doing," he said, interrupting the controversy that
was about to ensue between the naturalist and the bee-hunter; "it is
time to leave off books and moanings, and to be doing."
"You have come to your recollections too late, miserable old man,"
cried Middleton; "the flames are within a quarter of a mile of us, and
the wind is bringing them down in this quarter with dreadful
rapidity."
"Anan! the flames! I care but little for the flames. If I only knew
how to circumvent the cunning of the Tetons, as I know how to cheat
the fire of its prey, there would be nothing needed but thanks to the
Lord for our deliverance. Do you call this a fire? If you had seen
what I have witnessed in the Eastern hills, when mighty mountains were
like the furnace of smith, you would have known what it was to fear
the flames, and to be thankful that you were spared! Come, lads, come;
'tis time to be doing now, and to cease talking; for yonder curling
flame is truly coming on like a trotting moose.
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