The fire gave more support to the schemes of Mr Sparks than did all his arguments and glowing descriptions.  Mr Claxton, my uncles, and most of the settlers who possessed the means of transport, resolved to accept his offers, and at once prepared for the journey.  Those who had no waggons made up their minds to remain where they were, and to cultivate the ground, which the ashes would render more fertile than before.  The grass, after the first rain, would spring up and afford a rich pasture for their cattle; and the charred trunks would enable them to rebuild their log-huts and put up fences.  I had reason afterwards to believe that they chose the wisest course; though at the time I was well pleased at the thought of the long journey we were to take, and the adventures we might expect to meet with.