There was a commotion both in the direction in which Jack had fired, and also down between the nearer rocks, and, rushing up, the four young hunters beheld two minks, whirling about in the snow, each badly wounded.
"Mink, boys! Think of it!"
"Don't let them get away!"
These cries mingled with several more rapid reports, as one lad after another fired a second charge. This time their aims were better, and in a moment each of the minks lay stretched out on the rocks, dead.
"I think there was a third one," observed Randy, "but he must have got away."
"Well, we've got two, anyway," answered Jack with some pride. "What beautiful creatures they are!"
Each of the minks was over a foot in length, not counting the bushy tail. They were of a soft brown shade, with a ridge of black on the back and patches of white below. Each was quite plump, and gave forth a peculiar strong odor.
The boys were greatly delighted, and viewed the game with much satisfaction. They placed the minks over their shoulders, and then continued the hunt, presently stirring up half a dozen rabbits.
"I guess we had better be starting for the cabin," announced Jack presently.
"How about going to that other cabin at the south end of the island?" queried Fred.