to carry our scent to them. If it does, they'll be off like a shot."

The others knew that the doctor's son spoke the truth, and so
the _Snapper_ was turned around, and they went ashore at a point
where the trees were thick. Snap carried the rifle and the others
had their shotguns, and all looked to the firearms to be sure they
were in condition for immediate use. With great care the four boys
started to stalk the deer, as it is called. Snap led the way, and
never was an Indian hunter more careful of his steps. He knew that
the deer's ears were wide open for any unusual sound and even the
cracking of a dry stick would attract their attention.

The journey over the rocks and through the timber was a laborious
one. In some spots the undergrowth was so thick that further
progress seemed, at first, impossible. Once Giant got caught so
completely that the others had to help him free himself. Hardly
a word was uttered, and then only in the faintest of whispers.

At last Snap felt they must be close to where Shep had seen the
game, and he motioned for the doctor's son to take the lead.

"You saw 'em---you ought to have first chance at 'em," he whispered.

"I want you all to fire," was the reply.

An instant later came a faint sound ahead, and looking through the
trees, the four boy hunters saw three deer walking swiftly along.
One was a beautiful doe not more than half grown.

"There is our chance!" cried Shep, excitedly. "Now then, all