The rifle shot had aroused the rest of the expedition, and they came running out, wondering what was meant.
“What’s up?” demanded Mr. Holton, as he first caught sight of his son.
“Plenty,” Bob replied and led them to the bodies of the wildcats.
Everyone cried out in surprise and amazement at sight of the beasts.
“Ocelots,” pronounced Mr. Lewis. “I didn’t know that they were this common. How did you happen to come across them?”
Bob was obliged to relate the entire experience. He told of how he had come across one of the creatures at the body of the deer, of the thrilling combat that took place when the other ocelot arrived, and of shooting the survivor. The party listened with breathless interest, and even the Indians demanded a translation.
“An unusual happening,” said Professor Bigelow, looking at Bob in admiration and wishing that he had been present.
“Takes old Bob to do it,” smiled Joe. “And that required some nerve, too. The first wild animal he’s ever met.”
“It’s a case where the first is one of the most savage,” remarked Mr. Lewis, directing a glance at the creature’s sharp canine teeth. “The ocelot is next only to the jaguar in ferocity and daring.”