animal was held fast by the neck between the door and its frame.





CHAPTER V

A NEVER-TO-BE-FORGOTTEN SWIM

"I've got him fast! Help! Help!"

"Tom's caught the bear!" shouted Sam. "Can you hold him, Tom?"

"I guess I can if some of you will help me!" panted the youth.
"Hurry up!"

Sam and Dick were on the stairs, but now both ran to their
brother's assistance, and all three pushed upon the door with all
of their strength.

The barrier groaned and creaked and it looked as if at any
instant it would burst from its hinges.

"Gracious, we can't hold him very long!" gasped Sam. "Can't
somebody hit the animal with a club?"

"I reckon I can do dat!" shouted one of the hostlers, and caught
up an ax-handle which stood in one corner. As he approached the
bear, the beast uttered a roar of commingled rage and fear, and