Page:Hugh Pendexter--The young timber-cruisers.djvu/171

 “Ask some fool questions,” replied Abner, his eyes reflecting his good humor.

“I will,” said Stanley. “What are you looking for, bears?”

“Not being out for bears I’m not looking fer ’em,” replied Abner. “But I’ll add that bear hunters often use glasses when they want one of the varmints. The first to do it was laughed at by the o1d hunters, but soon the veterans found it was a great saving of time to sweep the ridges of a mountain with a good glass before climbing up its sides in search of bruin. But I was trying to pick out the ridge we will follow. I guess I’ve got it now.”

Bub already had prepared the breakfast and after this was eaten he packed up a parcel of food and strapped his blankets.

“Shall we stay all night on the mountain?” inquired Stanley.

“We’ll go prepared to,” said Abner. “It’ll be easier than coming back here. I sha’n’t put in much time on this cant, just waiting for Charlie to overtake us. Now if we’re ready we’ll start.” And picking up his rifle he led the way towards the mountain.

To Stanley he seemed to proceed with no purpose, winding in and out, turning first to the left and then to the right. But had the