"Jump into a tree!" cried Dave, and showed the way. The others followed, clutching at some low-hanging branches and pulling themselves up as rapidly as possible. Dave and Sam were soon safe, but the mastiff, making a bound, caught Phil by the sole of his shoe.
"Hi!" roared Phil. "Let go!" And he kicked out with the other foot. This made the mastiff make another snap, but his aim was poor, and he dropped back to the ground, while Phil hauled himself up beside his companions.
"Phew! but that was a narrow escape and no mistake," was the comment of the big youth, after he could catch his breath. "I thought sure he had me by the foot!"
"We are in a pickle," groaned Sam. "I suppose that dog will camp right at the foot of this tree till Farmer Cadmore comes."
"Yes, he is camping now," announced Dave, peering down into the gloom. The moment the mastiff saw him, the canine set up a loud barking.
For a full minute after that none of the boys spoke, each being busy with his thoughts.
"We are treed, that is certain," said Phil, soberly. "And I must say I don't see any way to escape."
"Yes, and don't forget about the ram," added Sam. "Old Jabez Cadmore will want to know about him, too."
"I've got an idea," said Dave, presently. "Perhaps it won't work, but it won't do any harm to try it."
"Give it to us, by all means!"