Page:Hugh Pendexter--The young timber-cruisers.djvu/102

 aid in some degree in making from the shore. He also wished that Charlie would turn out into the open lake and not hold a parallel course. But he said nothing. If danger confronted them he would prove he could meet it in a manly fashion.

Then the paddles were held motionless and the two men and Bub seemed to be listening intently. The strain was beginning to tell on Stanley when the cackle exploded right at his side, and with a half smothered cry he started to his feet.

“Sit down! Squat!” thundered Abner, as the canoe tipped to a dangerous angle.

“What—what was it?” whispered Stanley, staring at the water and discovering nothing.

“Mebbe bear,” said Charlie.

“Keep still,” commanded Abner, as the sound again rose from the side of the canoe and Stanley was about to capsize the craft.

The sight of Bub, trailing his paddle, overcome by laughter assured Stanley there could be no danger and he grinned sheepishly.

“O my son!” feebly exclaimed Bub, “we knew you’d do it. The minute I heard it I knew you’d git anxious if we kept quiet and sort of sober. What a treat you’re going to be to me.”