The repast over, they started on the return, Jed helping with first one drag and then the other. He also pointed out what he thought would be the easiest route to follow. This was over two hills.
"Well have to climb, but we won't fall down between any o' the rocks," he said. "It's dangerous walking over rocks with snow on 'em, for if you go down in a hollow you're liable to twist an ankle or break a leg."
"We certainly don't want any accidents," said Shep.
"How the eyes of Ham Spink and his crowd would stick out if they knew we had bagged so much game!" exclaimed Whopper. "If they had such luck they'd never get done talking about it."
"Do you think they'll come out this winter?" questioned Giant.
"I don't know," answered Snap. "If they do come out I hope they keep away from us."
"So do I," put in the doctor's son.
CHAPTER XX
SHOOTING WILD DUCKS
When the boys and Jed Sanborn reached camp a surprise awaited them. Seated at a small fire in front of Birch Tree Inn was an elderly man dressed in the outfit of a mountain guide.