The youths stretched out on the cool white sand beside the pool. The atmosphere in the cavern was such a departure from the fierce outside heat that they were content idly to while the time away, despite the fact that they should be getting back to camp. At times they bent over to drink of the refreshing water, delightfully knowing that they could have all they wanted.
Then they grew drowsy and gradually fell asleep, a thing that they should not have done.
At last they were awakened—suddenly! Every nerve in their bodies seemed tense. Something told them not to move.
Slowly they edged around and looked toward the back of the cave. Then they started, as a savage growl rent the air. A fierce tiger cat was crouched ready to spring. It had evidently come to the pool for water when it had discovered the youths.
There was no time to take aim with their rifles, for the beast would be upon them.
Slowly Bob reached for his pistol, and Joe followed suit. At last the boys were ready for action.
With a quick motion Bob whirled about and took hasty aim; then fired. A second later the report of Joe’s gun rang out.
“Missed!” cried Joe in horror. “Both shots missed!”
“Well, we won’t miss again,” said Bob, gritting his teeth. “We’ve got to stop him.”