Part 7 (2/2)
But the balance of the pack were close by Out they leaped in twos and threes, reckless of the firelight White teeth gleamed and snapped in every crevice of the timber
The catamount screeched, and quivered for a second attack Then it altered its purpose It seized the haunch of venison, and attempted to make off with it
The wolves took this move for cowardice, and were ele that ensued was simply terrific The cata, lithe body perforreat excitement ”This beats the old Roman shows Do you think the catamount will be killed?”
”Not likely,” replied Jerry, ”but he'll lose the ainst him”
”That's so,” exclaimed Hamp ”Look, fellows, look!”
Just then the catamount leaped clear over his circle of tormentors With a screech of baffled fury he bounded into the bushy li tree, and then vanished
Three wolves lay struggling in their death agonies on the snow Here and there li at the venison with teeth and claws
They reatfroaunt brutes were assembled around the carcass
The bones of the deer were soon polished cleanly Then the fa of this cannibalistic lade, sniffed the air for adown the bank of the ravine The patter of their feet was instantly all around the cabin They brushed against the sides, and scratched at the interstices of the bea like a troop of deed lads were taken by complete surprise
”We'll be torn to pieces,” cried Brick ”They'll be through the door in a minute”
”No they won't,” yelled Jerry
He hurled hiun to move
”Keep cool, boys,” he added ”It's our only chance Fire away, and make every shot tell”
Then he poked his rifle under the doorway, and pulled the trigger The report was followed by a yelp of agony The wolves fell back a little
They had a wholesome fear of firearms
Jerry reloaded his rifle, and jauard this end,” he yelled, hoarsely ”You fellows ly outlook,” replied Hauns, Brick
Keep theot four between us--six with Jerry's But where's the ae belt that was strapped about his waist ”Help yourself, Hah?”
There was no chance for reply Jerry sounded a note of warning as the wolves caaunt head suddenly shot through the aperture, and a pair of frothy jaws closed with a snap on the sleeve of Hamp's jacket Brick instantly reversed his rifle, and hit the brute a stunnning blow The head vanished, and Hamp nervously examined his arm
”Not a scratch,” he muttered ”You hit hi”