“ ‘WHAT KIND OF BIRD ARE YOU?’ ”

“Certainly,” replied our hero; “come down and I’ll share with you.”

The strange bird did not wait for the invitation to be repeated. In a very short time he devoured the lion’s share of the lunch, and he and our hero became very friendly. [[296]]

“What kind of bird are you?”

“I’m a gum-hawk,” cried he, stretching his huge wings. “We are the giants of the feathered tribe hereabouts.”

“You are a monster,” responded Bob in admiration. “I suppose you are quite strong enough to carry a man like me?”

“I’d carry two such as you,” answered the gum-hawk quietly. “Only try me.”

“Perhaps I may,” said Bob. “Do you know a place named the Granite Cliff?”

“Rather; are you going there?”