"There, go and hold it up fifty paces beyond the target."
"Rather you than me," said Franz with a shrug, as Rudolf walked off.
"I'm not a bit afraid," said Rudolf.
He had no need to be. Crack went the rifle; puff went the feather. There it lay, in two little fragments; Rudolf's finger and thumb unhurt.
"Well—that was the coolest thing!" ejaculated Franz, as the hills rang with acclamations.
"Yes, he's cool enough, that lad; without any brag," said Hofer, quietly putting down his piece.
"Franz was not thinking of him," said Speckbacher, grasping his friend's hand.
"I was," said Hofer softly. "I've tested the boy."
Speckbacher gave him a quick look.
"He stood fire well."