ng out and numbers of them fell, the others were at first somewhat
disconcerted; but the hot scent of the deer was close, and the fact that
their enemies were invisible made them determined not to yield at this
first alarm.

With a rush the survivors, perhaps about twenty in number, dashed into
the thicket, into which the deer had disappeared, and from which their
enemies had fired upon them. Sudden as was this rush it was not quicker
than the movements of the hunters, who had closed in together, and with
axes in hand were ready for their wild, mad attack. Mustagan and his
three Indians were in front, while the two boys were placed a little in
the rear.

As the pack came on some of them seemed disconcerted by the appearance
of the hunters, and especially by the loud shouts which, at Mustagan's
orders, they now made. All wild animals seem to have a dread of the
human voice. And thus it was on this occasion. Some of the wolves were
startled and fell back, but numbers of them resolutely dashed on to the
attack. Then it was axe against teeth, and one wolf after another fell
dead or badly wounded under the heavy, skillful blows. Frank and Sam
each had the satisfaction of finishing off some of the wounded ones.

But the conflict was a fierce one; and how it would have gone with them
eventually is hard to say, but it was victoriously ended by a welcome
arrival of additional forces. Mr Ross and the others in the canoe had
also been watching the deer, and had seen their startled movements and
sudden flight. This had caused them to use their paddles as vigourously
as possible and make for the shore. Ere they reached it the howling of
the wolves fell on their ears. Then they had seen the rapid flight of
the herd, and soon after the wild rush of the wolves not far behind
them. So, as speedily as possible, Mr Ross and the party had landed in
the rear and had hurried on.

The firing of the guns of Mustagan and his party plainly told them of
danger, and also indicated the position of their friends. So they
cautiously hurried along, and were in good time to pour, from the side,
a volley into the wolves, that were now making a fierce attack on the
men and boys.

This second attack was too much for the wolves, and so with howls of
baffled rage they turned to the east, and soon disappeared in the
forest, to be seen no more.

Many and sincere were the congratulations of all at their success and
deliverance.

This was