“A snake, and a pretty big one too, I expect,” said the doctor. “Python, most likely.”
“Pison?” said Dan.
“Python, my lad, not pison,” said the doctor. “That class of serpent is harmless. Don’t miss it, Sir James, and don’t shatter its head if you can help it.”
“If I shoot it,” said Sir James, “I will not answer for where I shall hit. If you want it as a specimen, take the gun.”
“Do you mean it, Sir James?”
“Certainly. Catch hold.”
“Oh, I say, doctor, let me shoot!” cried Mark excitedly.
“No, no, my boy; don’t interfere,” said his father. “No, doctor, don’t give up to him,” for the latter was drawing back. “Now, all of you,” cried Sir James, setting the example, “pick up a stone each, and we will throw till we drive the reptile out.”
His orders were obeyed, and for the next five minutes as the doctor stood ready to fire, stone after stone, big and little, were hurled at the foot of the wall, but with no further effect than producing a slight rustling sound, as if the creature had plenty of room in the hollow which formed its lair.
“I think I can do it, Sir James,” said Buck.