“As you undoubtedly are aware, discharging firearms in the Park is a serious offense. Strict regulations govern the carrying of arms, and for reasons which you will readily understand. In the circumstances, I have no alternative in the matter. I might imprison the young man, but I shall not do so. Instead, I shall impose a fine of fifty dollars, and—”
“Fifty dollars!” gasped Chunky, aghast.
“As I was about to say,” resumed the officer, “I fine you fifty dollars, but will remit the fine pending your future good behavior.”
Stacy Brown drew a long sigh of relief.
“I shall require, however, that your party give up their arms or have them sealed to remain so until you leave the Park. This is customary. Your side arms, if you have any, you are at liberty to carry as usual. Instead of giving up their arms, travelers ordinarily prefer to have the locks of the weapons sealed, so that, in case they are beset by bear or other animals, they may have a means of defending themselves. This sometimes occurs.”
“If a bear tackles me, may I kill him?” interposed Stacy hopefully.
“Self-preservation is the first law of nature, young man. So far as I know that law has never been repealed,” smiled the colonel. “But make no mistake in this matter. It is generally better to run than to shoot. You are guiding this party, are you not?” he demanded, turning to Jim Badger.
“Yes, sir.”
“Then I shall hold you, as well as your employers, responsible, for any violation of Park regulations. That will be all. You will please register, get your permits, and turn your weapons over to the guard to be sealed, provided you wish to take them with you.”
After thanking the officer, the party walked out, Stacy soberly, the others smiling broadly.