"I don't think he did."
"Then there must be other hunters not far off."
They continued on their way, coming to a halt where the branch of the brook entered a small, rocky canyon.
"No use of going further," said Joe. "Let us retrace our steps."
"Where can your brother be? I haven't heard him for some time."
Joe set up a yell, and both listened attentively. No answer came back. Then both called in concert. Still the silence continued.
"It's mighty queer," was Joe's comment "Let us go back. Perhaps he's in trouble."