“What a beauty!” exclaimed the delighted Jock.
“Keep still, or ye’ll scare him,” warned Ethan.
But the fish was within reach now, and the boatman leaned forward, and with a quick thrust of his gaff drove it into the body. There was a splash of water, the light skiff rocked until the boys were almost thrown from their seats, and then they instantly recovered themselves and turned to see the result of Ethan’s effort.
CHAPTER VIII.
JOCK HAS HIS TURN.
There was a commotion on board which seemed to threaten the safety of all. The huge fish was throwing himself from side to side, but Ethan was equal to the emergency, and with his merciful hickory club soon put an end to the struggle.
“Whe-e-w!” exclaimed Jock, in delight. “Isn’t he a beauty!”
“That depends,” said Ethan, laconically. “I don’t believe that chub thought he was specially pretty, when he saw this fellow get after him.”
“He seems to have a remarkably open countenance,” drawled Bob, as he pried open the great mouth with the end of his rod.