“What is it?” I cried, excitedly.

“Enemy. Get yourself a good stout stick.”

“Rake-handle do?”

“Yes, capital.”

I ran to the tool-shed and came back directly, panting.

“Now,” I said, “what enemy is it—an alligator?”

“No. You said you didn’t believe there were any snakes here. I’ve got one to show you now.”

“Yes; but where?”

“Never you mind where. All you’ve got to do is to creep after me silent like; and when you see me pin him down with this fork, you can kill him.”

“But what a cowardly way,” I cried; “it isn’t fair.”