"'Yes, of course I do; three iron slugs will do their work more surely than a leaden bullet.'
"'They will spoil the skin.'
"'Never mind that, if they do their work more effectually.'
"'And when do you intend to commence your chase?'
"'I will tell you that to-morrow.'
"'Once more, then—are you quite determined not to let me share the chance with you?'
"'Yes, I prefer managing the whole matter myself, and sharing neither the danger nor the profit—chacun pour soi.'
"'Farewell, then, neighbor—I wish you success.'
"In the evening, as Francis was passing Mona's dwelling, he saw the huntsman quietly seated on the bench before his door, engaged in smoking his pipe. He once more approached him and said:
"'See, I bear you no ill-will—I have discovered the bear's track, therefore I might lie in wait for him and shoot him, if I pleased, without your help; but I have come once more to you, to propose that we should attack him together.'