As he felt very much inclined that way himself, Dick made no effort to hold back sleep, and in a short time both lads were fast locked in slumber.
Some time passed, just how long neither of them really knew, when Dick felt a violent tug at his arm. He was wide-awake instantly, and understood just where he was, as well as what the jerk signified.
“What is it?” he whispered, as he felt for his gun the first thing, as though its touch would give him renewed confidence.
“Something or somebody is moving around outside, Dick,” whispered Roger.
“Hist! listen!” remarked Dick, softly.
There was a slight scuffling sound, and the stump at the opening moved violently. Then came the loud sniffing of some animal that was trying to thrust its nose through a very small crevice and, apparently, could not understand why the door was closed.
“It must be a bear,” said Dick, no longer keeping his voice confined to a whisper, but speaking aloud, “and this is his den. He wonders what has happened, and it may be he scents us, for he’s trying to push his way in!”