at it," nodded Jerry, who was in secret more shaken by his recent
terrible experience than he cared to show.

They went down a little later, Jerry carrying his two dearly-earned
trout. And when the others praised the fisherman that evening at supper
for supplying their camp table, they little dreamed how near their
hard-working chum had come to disaster in his efforts to land the
enticing finny beauties of the river.

Besides the trout, they enjoyed mutton that night, for Frank's mountain
sheep was brought into use. Perhaps it was tough, perhaps the flavor did
not strike the boys quite as favorably as some mutton they had eaten at
home, but such trifles could not dampen their enthusiasm a particle, and
they voted the meal a grand success all around.

Seated about the blaze afterward, they chatted until late. Bluff was
inclined to be a bit moody, and sat by himself, listening to all that
was said, but taking no share in the conversation.

Frank noticed that he seemed to fondle his rifle more than usual, and he
believed the other must be thinking of the elk he had shot, but which
had been stolen by those wandering thieves of Crees.

"He's still worrying about that butcher knife of his," whispered Jerry,
nudging Frank as he spoke. "I wonder will the fellow ever forget it?"

"Now, I was watching him, and, to tell the truth, I fancy Bluff has
become aroused to the delight of bringing down big game. That elk was a
revelation to him. See how he listens while Billy is telling of the
panther tracks he saw not a great way off. I wouldn't put it past Bluff