"They are bears!"
In fact half-a-dozen of these formidable animals had succeeded in getting over the palisades, and, attracted by the smoke from the chimneys, were advancing upon the house.
On hearing of the approach of the bears, Hobson at once ordered the window of the passage to be barricaded inside; it was the only unprotected opening in the house, and when it was secured it appeared impossible for the bears to effect an entrance. The window was, therefore, quickly closed up with bars, which the carpenter Mac-Nab wedged firmly in, leaving a narrow slit through which to watch the movements of the unwelcome visitors.
"Now," observed the head carpenter, "these gentlemen can't get in without our permission, and we have time to hold a council of war."
"Well, Lieutenant," exclaimed Mrs Barnett, "nothing has been wanting to our northern winter! After the cold come the bears."
"Not after," replied the Lieutenant, "but, which is a serious matter, with the cold, and a cold ago intense that we cannot venture outside! I really don't know how we shall get rid .of these tiresome brutes."
"I suppose they will soon get tired of prowling about," said the lady, "and return as they came."
Hobson shook his head as if he had his doubts.
"You don't know these animals, madam. They are famished with hunger, and will not go until we make them!"
"Are you anxious, then?"