With a hand that trembled in spite of himself, Hackett drew back the canvas flap. No sooner had he peered through the opening than a wild cry escaped his lips.
CHAPTER XII
THE WILDCAT
Within a few feet of the hut, motionless upon a fallen tree, stood an enormous wildcat. Its large yellow eyes were glaring steadily toward them, and, as if transfixed by sight of the group of pale faces which suddenly appeared, it made not the slightest move.
"Look at those blazing eyes!" cried Sam.
"It's going to spring—watch out, fellows!" shouted Hackett.
"I knew a wildcat was making those awful cries," chattered Dick.
Hackett, with a look of determination, raised his gun, Nat following suit.
The cries had ceased. As if in sullen defiance, the animal glared toward the hut.