SCRAPING THE SEALSKIN.
BILLY AND HIS PORCUPINES.
Woodcraft Boys at Sunset Island. Page [228]
When the water had cleared, Billy plainly saw the dead seal lying on a ledge. He pondered the situation well, then decided to wait and watch the seal, for he feared that with the wash of the ebb-tide he would never find it again if he left the place. When the returning “moss-backs” came in sight with their launch he would hail them to come and help him.
Finally, the chugging of the engine was heard and Billy hailed the Captain and Fred.
“I’ve got a seal—come and help me get him!” yelled Billy, contradictorily.
With the Captain and Fred aiding, Billy used the oar to push a slip-noose under and around the seal’s tail and hauled it up to the surface. With considerable labour it was pulled on board but its bleeding head was left hanging over the side of the launch.
Once at the Island the seal was hauled up on the rocks and Billy started in to skin it. Uncle Tom came for the girls before this work had been completed and they waved hands at the busy boy, shouting as they left the float-stage: