Page:Hugh Pendexter--The young timber-cruisers.djvu/218

 watch that small opening back there and look sharp.”

The youths did as directed, the small area being dimly discernible. With straining eyes they looked, until Stanley could imagine all sorts of forms and figures crossing the little glade. Then all three were cast in a rigid mould as a dark blotch swiftly crept from cover to cover.

“Come,” said Abner briefly. “I was hoping he was farther to the west. In looking back I picked out that opening as the one spot where he might show up if he was directly behind us.”

Gritting his teeth Stanley sought to forget his lame ankle and resolutely accommodated his steps to the now rapid advance of his companions. Hood mountain seemed as far away as ever and the youth knew that under the most favorable circumstances its summit could not be conquered till afternoon.

“Let’s have a drink,” said Abner, leading the way to a bubbling stream.

Several precious minutes were spent in this refreshment but each felt new strength as he rose to continue the journey.

Then Stanley forgot about his ankle, his whole system seemed benumbed and he stalked