Page:Young Hunters of the Lake.djvu/225

Rh better take sufficient food with us to last all day," suggested the doctor's son.

The sky looked a trifle uncertain to them, but nobody wanted to stay in camp waiting for it to rain. They started off about nine o'clock, taking to the trail they had previously pursued. Snap led the way, with the others following in Indian file. The leader of the club had a rifle while the others were provided with shotguns. They carried with them sufficient ammunition to bring down a dozen bears.

Noon found them well up on the mountain and in the vicinity where the bear had been seen. On the way they had stirred up some quail and Giant had taken two shots before the others could stop him, bringing down four of the birds.

"Maybe that shot scared away Mr. Bear," said Whopper. "If it did we'll have our tramp for nothing."

"I am sorry—I fired before I could think," answered the small member of the club. "I'll not do it again."

They now advanced in silence, knowing that a bear has sharp ears and will run at the first intimation of danger. They kept their eyes and ears on the alert and their firearms ready for immediate use.

"Look!" said Whopper presently, in a strained