Jerry started the engine, and, at slow speed, put the boat close over to the big creature, which was now quite dead.
“I hadn’t any idea they were so large,” said Ned.
“As I told you before, they sometimes weigh nearly a thousand pounds,” the professor said. “They are harmless, but I suppose this one must be an old one, and a sort of king of this section of the river. Very likely he didn’t like our boat to disturb his feeding ground. By the way, Bob, I think he’s a friend of yours.”
“A friend of mine?”
“Yes, that one, or one just like it, tried to bite your foot last night.”
“Was that what had hold of my foot?”
“That was the creature,” replied the scientist. “I was pretty sure of it before, but I didn’t want to say so until I had some proof. I had no idea there were any in this river, and I fancy we shall see no more. Well, boys, you had quite an experience. Many hunters would give a good deal for the chance of killing a manatee, though I don’t see much sport in it myself.”
“What are they good for?” asked Jerry.
“Various purposes. I suppose some years ago the Seminole Indians were very glad to eat them. But I don’t believe we’ll take it along with us. It would be too much trouble. If it was alive a museum might pay a good price for it. But, Bob, I hope you’re not in danger of taking cold from your bath.”
“Not in the least,” replied Chunky with a laugh. “It’s so warm in the water that I’d like to stay in all day.”