WONDER TALES OF THE FOREST 111

The man went about his work. In the autumn he thought about the threat of the Ice- King and he prepared for battle. First, he built a Wigwam in a place Where fuel and water were plenty. Then he laid in a good supply of Wood, chopping down dry old trees, and cutting the fuel fine. Oil he prepared, too, to use in case of need. And he made ready a great sup- ply of Winter clothing.

Winter came at last, and with it came the Ice- King. Everywhere his breath could be felt— stifiening the lakes and river, and covering the ground with frost and snow. The air became colder and colder, until at last, one day, the Ice- King walked boldly into the Wigwam, and took his seat opposite the place where the man was sitting. So cold was his body and breath that the fire almost went out, and the Indian was nearly benumbed by the cold.

Yet he had still the power to bestir himself, and with all the energy he possessed, he began to pile the wood upon the fire. The fire roared, and crackled, and blazed higher and higher, and the Ice-King moved back. Soon he moved back still farther, and then again, until he was against the wall of the Wigwam and could go no farther. Then he began to melt and grow smaller and weaker. At last he was obliged to cry out for mercy.