he day that was
nearly at hand. Rod could but contrast the excitement that had now taken
possession of them with the tranquil joy with which they had first taken
up their abode in this dip in the hilltop. And how different were their
plans from those of two or three days ago! Not one of them now but
realized their peril. They were in an ideal hunting range, but it was
evidently very near, if not actually in, the Woonga country. At any
moment they might be forced to fight for their lives or abandon their
camp, and perhaps they would be compelled to do both.

So the gathering about the stove was in reality a small council of war.
It was decided that the old cabin should immediately be put into a
condition of defense, with a loophole on each side, strong new bars at
the door, and with a thick barricade near at hand that could be quickly
fitted against the window in case of attack. Until the war-clouds
cleared away, if they cleared at all, the camp would be continually
guarded by one of the hunters, and with this garrison would be left both
of the heavy revolvers. At dawn or a little later Mukoki would set out
upon Wabi's trap-line, both to become acquainted with it and to extend
the line of traps, while later in the day the Indian youth would follow
Mukoki's line, visiting the houses already built and setting other
traps. This scheme left to Rod the first day's watch in camp.

Mukoki aroused himself from his short sleep with the first approach of
dawn but did not awaken his tired companions until breakfast was ready.
When the meal was finished he seized his gun and signified his intention
of visiting the mink traps just beyond the hill before leaving on his
long day's trail. Rod at once joined him, leaving Wabi to wash the
dishes.

They were shortly within view of the trap-houses near the creek.
Instinctively the eyes of both rested upon these houses and neither gave
very close attention to the country ahead or about them. As a result
both were exceedingly startled when they heard a huge snort and a great
crunching in the deep snow close beside them. From out of a small growth
of alders had dashed a big bull moose, who was now tearing with the
speed of a horse up the hillside toward the hidden camp, evidently
seeking the quick shelter of the dip.

"Wait heem git top of hill!" shouted Mukoki, swinging his rifle to his
shoulder. "Wait!"

It was a beautiful shot and Rod was tempted to ignore the old Indian's
advice. But