"I won't, Miss, and I beg your pardon; but I really couldn't help it," he apologized.
There was considerable excitement aboard the Magnolia when the party returned with word about the alligators, and when Paul and Russ went back with Jed, Russ taking a large camera, another boatload of men with guns was made up for the hunt.
Even Jed was satisfied later with the day's work, and Russ got a film that created quite a sensation when shown, for never before had an alligator hunt been given in moving pictures.
"Well, I can't go on with you folks any longer," said Jed that night, as Mr. Pertell, aboard the Magnolia, was talking of further plans. "I've got to stay and take care of my alligator skins," he added. "It means big money to me."
"I wish you could come," said the manager. "For we are going into the wilds, and we may need your help."
"Into the wilds?" echoed Mr. Sneed. "Do you think it safe?"
"I don't know whether it is or not," responded Mr. Pertell, and he spoke half seriously. "But we have to go to get the views I want. I hope none of you refuse to come."
No one did, but there was not a little apprehension.
"Those two girls went into the wilds—and did not come back, you know," said Ruth to Alice in a low voice.
"Oh, don't think of it," was the rejoinder. "We are a large party—we can't get lost."