“He’ll grow to like it, though,” prophesied Cora. “He’ll be ready for another one by the time we get back.”
The cars moved along now at a moderate pace, for they had ample time before them and were not at all anxious to reach their destination.
Suddenly Jack’s car, which was in advance, came to a full stop. He turned about and motioned for Cora to drive up as softly as possible.
“What is it?” she asked as she drew up alongside.
For answer, Jack pointed ahead, and the girls saw a big rattlesnake sunning himself in the road.
The girls gave a shriek that roused the snake. He reared his ugly triangular head, saw the cars, and with an angry rattle threw himself into position for attack or defense as the case might call for. His forked tongue played back and forth like lightning and his wicked eyes sparkled with rage.
“Beauty, isn’t he?” asked Jack.
“Oh, let’s get back!” cried Belle. “He may try to climb into the car!”
“A black snake does that sometimes, but a rattler never does,” declared Walter. “He’ll leave us alone if we leave him alone.”
“For goodness’ sake, leave him alone, then!” pleaded Bess.