way, so much was he injured
by the fall, when the other bull, who apparently must have been an old
antagonist of the first, roared and attacked him; and now the two boys
were up in the tree, the two bulls fighting between them, and Smoker
lying on the ground, panting and exhausted. As the bulls, with locked
horns, were furiously pressing each other, both guns were discharged,
and both animals fell. After waiting a little while to see if they rose
again, or if any more of the herd came up, Edward and Humphrey descended
from the trees and heartily shook hands.

CHAPTER TWELVE.

"A narrow escape," said Edward, as he held his brother's hand.

"Yes, indeed we may thank Heaven for our preservation," replied
Humphrey; "and poor Smoker! Let us see if he is much hurt."

"I trust not," said Edward, going up to the dog, who remained quite
still on the ground, with his tongue out, and panting violently.

They examined poor Smoker all over very carefully, and found that there
was no external wound; but on Edward pressing his side the animal gave a
low howl.

"It is there where the horn of the bull took him," observed Humphrey.

"Yes," said Edward, pressing and feeling softly; "and he has two of his
ribs broken. Humphrey, see if you can get him a little water, that will
recover him more than anything else; the bull has knocked the breath out
of his body. I think he will soon be well again, poor fellow."

Humphrey soon returned with some water from a neighbouring pool. He
brought it in his hat and gave it to the dog, who lapped it slowly at
first, but afterwards much faster, and wagging his tail.

"He will do now," said Edward; "we must give him time to recover
himself. Now then, let us examine our quarry. Why, Humphrey, what a
quantity of meat we have here! It will take three journeys to Lymington
at least."

"Yes, and no time to lose, for the weather is getting warm already,
Edward. Now what to do? Will you remain while I go home for the cart?"

"Yes, it's no use both going; I will stay here and watch poor Smoker,
and take off the skins ready by the time you are back again. Leave me
your knife as well as my own, for one will soon be blunt."

Humphrey gave his knife to Edward, and taking up his gun, set off for
the cottage. Edward had skinned two of the bulls before Humphrey's
return; and Smoker, although he evidently was in great pain, was on his
legs again. As soon as they had finished and quartered t