"It's all our fault; we were so careless."

"I'll never be so thoughtless again if I ever get out of this."

"But we can't. We'll be eaten up in less than half an hour. Oh, dear!"

The battle now actually began. The boys were forced to the extreme end
of the island, and they had to fight or take to the water. Behind them
was an enormous alligator--larger than any other two. The big fellow was
floating about motionless, with more than half of his body out of water,
and he seemed to think that he was sufficient guard for that side of the
island.

The two hunters clubbed the approaching enemies and retreated gradually
into the water. At first they almost cried in their terror, but, as they
warmed up to their work, they felt that everything depended on their
bravery. Stam used the butt end of his gun, while Jed swung a heavy club
effectively.

But there was no fighting such determined enemies successfully. The boys
had to jump around lively to escape the snapping jaws and thrashing
tails.

At last they found themselves in water knee deep, with the alligators
close upon them.

"It's no use," gasped Jed, throwing away his club. "Swim for your life.
Make direct for the shore."