“Shhh!” hissed Mr. Holton. “I thought I heard a grunt just then. Listen!”
“You’re right, Howard,” murmured Mr. Lewis. “There’s something over in those bushes.”
They had not long to wait. Suddenly there came a loud grunt, and a moment later a huge buffalo appeared and faced them. Huge and ferocious looking, it seemed a very symbol of power.
“He’s going to charge!” cried Bob, raising his rifle. “Look out, Mr. Lewis!”
Joe’s father acted on the moment, aiming and firing with unusual rapidity. He pumped still another shot into the tough hide.
But the buffalo is possessed of an enormous amount of vitality and often retain enough energy to make a fatal charge, even though mortally wounded. So it was with this beast. It lunged toward Mr. Lewis, who had fired the second barrel of his rifle.
“Get him, somebody!” shouted the naturalist, preparing to run. “Hurry! I can’t reload in time.”
Just then Bob decided on a plan of action. He rushed wildly toward the animal, shouting at the top of his voice, hoping to divert its attention from Mr. Lewis, who, unarmed, would be in terrible plight if the beast should charge him.
His plan worked—to a certain extent. Instead of rushing at Mr. Lewis, the infuriated animal singled out Joe. The latter was operating the camera, and at first did not notice the oncoming foe.
“Look out!” yelled Bob. “Get out of the way, Joe! Quick, or you’re a goner!”