There was considerable excitement among the other players when the girls and children came back, accompanied by Jed, and told of their adventure.
Much was made over the alligator hunter, and Mrs. Maguire was profuse in her thanks. Then, in the next breath, she scolded the tots for wandering so far away.
"I think they won't do it again," said Ruth, with a smile, as she recalled their fright.
"No, sir! Never no more!" declared Tommy, earnestly.
Bad as the scare had been, its effects were not lasting, and Ruth and Alice were able to take their part in the drama that was being filmed. Jed Moulton looked on, his eyes big with wonder.
"That beats shootin' bobcats!" he declared at the conclusion of the performance.
Jed at once became a favorite with all, and when Mr. Pertell learned that he was quite a successful hunter he made him an offer.
"You come along with us," the manager urged. "I want to get a film of alligator hunting, and I'll make it worth your while to do some of your stunts before the camera. I'll pay you well, and you can have all the alligators you shoot."
"Say, that suits me—right down to the ground!" cried Jed, heartily. "I'll take you up on that."
So Jed became attached to the moving picture outfit, and a cheerful and valuable addition he proved. For he knew the country like a book, and offered valuable suggestions as to where new and striking scenic backgrounds could be obtained.