"Well, if you get used to it now, you needn't worry when the time comes to leave this old world," was all the satisfaction George gave him.
Jack lay there smiling, as he watched the fat boy heave, and finally plant one foot on the ground preparatory to getting up. He was never tired studying Nick, for he had an idea the other was not altogether so stupid as he seemed; but that he carried on at times just to tease George.
And as Jack continued to watch, he saw Nick give a sudden start, while his hands shut in a nervous way. At the time he was apparently looking beyond the fire, and toward the neighboring woods; for they were camping in what seemed to be a lonely place, possibly miles from any human habitation.
Apparently Nick had seen something, or he would not have given that start. Jack immediately sat up and took notice.
"What's the matter, Buster?" as asked, quickly; and both the others, hearing what he said, also started up.
The fat boy turned his head around. Signs of great excitement could be seen in the working of his facial muscles, as well as in his staring eyes.
"Good gracious!" he exclaimed, "it's a bear, fellows, as sure as you live!"
"What?" ejaculated Jack, as he made a dive for the Marlin, which he had, of course, taken ashore with him; while George also looked hastily around to see where he had laid his rifle.
"Where did you see it?" demanded Jack, gaining his feet.
"It's right inside that big live oak yonder!" cried Nick, pointing a trembling finger as he spoke. "It must be hollow, because I saw the beast poke his old head out. He ducked back again like fun when he saw me looking. A bear, fellows! Just think how many steaks he'd give us, if we bagged him!"