"I tell you what," said the Doctor, "a few enterprising colonists might make a fine settlement here. With a little industry and perseverance wonders might be done in this country. Ah! if I am not much mistaken, it has some four-footed inhabitants already. Those frisky little fellows know the best spots to choose."
"Hares! I declare. That's jolly! " said Altamont, loading his gun.
[Illustration: ]
"Stop!" cried the Doctor; "stop, you furious hunter. Let the poor little things alone; they are not thinking of running away. Look, they are actually coming to us, I do believe!"
He was right, for presently three or four young hares, gambolling away among the fresh moss and tiny heaths, came running about their legs so fearlessly and trustfully, that even Altamont was disarmed. They
[Illustration: It was a strange and touching spectacle to see the pretty creatures-they flew on Clawbonny's shoulders, etc.-P.169]
rubbed against the Doctor's knees, and let him stroke them till the kind-hearted man could not help saying to Altamont-
"Why give shot to those who come for caresses? The death of these little beasts could do us no good."
"You say what's true, Clawbonny. Let them live!" replied Hatteras.
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