They had to travel slowly, because the road was not very good for the horses, and at noon they had not come up to bruin. Eating a light lunch, they kept on, and it was mid-afternoon when Jack, who was ahead, noticed that his horse suddenly stopped and began to shiver.
“Fellows,” he cried, “we’re near the bear. That’s what ails the horse.”
The other steeds began to exhibit signs of terror, so it was decided to dismount and lead them back a short distance.
“I’ll stay with the horses,” volunteered Bony. “I—er—I don’t exactly feel up to hunting bears to-day.”
“You’re not afraid, are you?” asked Sam.
“No, not exactly. You might call it—out of practice,” and Bony began cracking his knuckles.
They tried to persuade him to go with them, but he would not, so Jack, Will, Nat and Sam went on. It did not take much searching to discover a trail leading farther up the side of the mountain, and following this a little way they smelled the unmistakable odor of wild animals.
“His cave’s near here,” whispered Jack.
They came in sight of it a moment later, and then there was no doubt as to who had stolen part of the ram. For in front of a black opening in the side of the big hill was a portion of the carcass.
“I wonder if he’s in there?” said Jack.