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 henhouse door. With the cocked rifle in his hand Bud peered into the henhouse.

"Gosh, Dad, he's gone," he cried. "He's got away."

"Are you sure there was any fox here at all?" inquired the man incredulously. "I don't see how he could get out."

"Look at that window, Dad," cried Bud excitedly. Mr. Holcome looked and saw that two panes and the sash, which had been broken, were gone.

Meanwhile, the sound of their voices aroused Redcoat and fear gave strength to his muscles. He struggled to his feet and trotted away into the darkness just as Bud reappeared at the big barn door, closely followed by Mr. Holcome.

"There he goes, Dad," cried Bud excitedly, raising the rifle.

"Bang," went the thunder stick, and Redcoat heard something go singing over his head and he quickened his pace.

"Where is he, Bud?" inquired the farmer. "I don't see him." Mr. Holcome strained his eyes in the direction Bud indi-