Chapter 43 The Talabas.—The Pursuit.—A Devastated Country.—The Wind begins to fall.—The Victoria sinks.—The last of the Provisions.—The Leaps of the Balloon.—A Defence with Fire-arms.—The Wind freshens.—The Senegal River.—The Cataracts of Gouina.—The Hot Air.—The Passage of the River. "Had we not taken the precaution to lighten the balloon yes-terday evening, we should have been lost beyond redemption," said the doctor, after a long silence. "See what's gained by doing things at the right time!" replied Joe. "One gets out of scrapes then, and nothing is more natural." "We are not out of danger yet," said the doctor. "What do you still