But it did not get there.
Bang! came the report of the rifle, and the bullet sped straight. The creature fell dead at once.
This time the Indian did not show signs of fear, for he knew what was to come. Instead he looked at Bob with awe and wonder in his eyes.
Back at the clearing they found that Joe had started a large fire. The warmth of it felt good as the chill of the fast-approaching night fell.
“You did have some luck, didn’t you?” observed Joe. “Wonder if it’ll be good eating.”
“Hope so.”
The animal was skinned with Bob’s hunting knife and placed over the fire to bake. Then the three sat together to witness the falling of night. As usual it came suddenly, and they huddled closer to the fire.
In time the animal was thoroughly baked, and then they began the meal.
Suddenly the chief got up and dashed through the jungle out of sight, leaving the youths to wonder at this sudden departure.
“Think he’s gone?” asked Joe, trying to catch sight of the Indian through the dense vegetation.