"What's all this?" he asked as he approached the group.
They separated, and he started back when he saw the lacerated head and body of the snake.
"None of you boys is hurt?" he asked with an anxious look around.
"Only scared," replied George, with what he tried to make a smile.
"How did this happen?" asked Mr. Claxton.
Hank told the whole story. Mr. Claxton was at first inclined to blame him severely, but forbore on account of the masterly way in which Hank had handled the situation.
"Well, I guess you boys have had enough of rattlesnakes as long as you live," remarked Mr. Claxton, turning to the boys.
There was an emphatic agreement.
"Once is enough for me," said George.
"Never again!" remarked Bob.