"He is hurt!" said Sam, who noticed that he was bleeding from a wound in the shoulder, where the claws of some animal had struck him with great force.
"It was done by the bear," said Nick, "and he hit Bowser a hard blow; I shouldn't wonder if it kills him."
Sam stooped over the dog and tried to soothe him by patting and speaking kind words.
"He is badly hurt, but I hope he isn't going to die. Poor fellow! we have been unjust to him; he's a good deal braver dog than we gave him credit for."
They were still patting and soothing the wounded hound, when the report of Herbert's rifle was heard again. Sam and Nick started up and stared in the direction whence the sound came.
"He has got the bear—"
Just then the voice of Herbert was heard ringing through the forest arches:
"Quick! quick! help! help! the bear has got me! Hurry up, boys, or I'm a goner!"
The lads dashed forward, excited and fearful they would be too late.