“He doesn’t lose any time,” whispered Mr. Stone.
“Not when he smells a bear,” Pep replied. “He can see a bear track in the dark. And he’s got some regular dogs.”
While the horses were being saddled the boys made up six blanket rolls for their party, and one for Pep, and packed up enough provisions for a couple of days. The provisions, a few “eating irons” and cooking utensils, and the blankets were put on the pack horse. Mr. Vreeland brought out two rifles, one for himself and one for somebody else.
“Who gets it?” he asked.
“Not I,” said Spider.
“Nor I,” said Mr. Stone. “Here’s my gun.” He patted the case of his tiny movie camera, which was slung from his shoulder.
“I’ll take it,” said Bennie.
“Know how to use it?” the man asked.
“N-not very well,” Bennie admitted.
“Well, it isn’t loaded,” Mr. Vreeland laughed. “Suppose you carry it today, and learn how much it weighs. Are we all set?”