s the exercise we are seeking; but I am inclined
to believe it is the proper one. It will at all events give you a fair
opportunity of killing a deer, as you will have to fire as they run,
and the great number of bullets in your musket will make you more
certain to do execution than if you fired a rifle. You will proceed to
yon thicket, about a thousand yards distant, keeping the bushes all
the time between you and the deer. When you arrive at it dismount,
and after tying your pony in the bushes where he will be well hid,
select a position whence you can see the deer when they run; I think
they will go within reach of your fire. I will make a detour beyond
them, and approach from the opposite side."

"I'd rather not tie my pony," said Joe.

"Why? he would not leave you, even were he to get loose," replied
Glenn.

"I don't think he would--but I'd rather not leave him yet awhile, till
I get a little better used to hunting," said Joe, probably thinking
there might be some danger to himself on foot in a country where
bears, wolves, and panthers were sometimes seen.

"Can you fire while sitting on your pony?" inquired Glenn.

[Illustration: Glenn heard a tremendous thumping behind.--P. 37]

"I suppose so," said Joe; "though I never thought to try it yet."

"Suppose you try it now, while I watch the deer, and see if what I
have been told is true, that the mere report of a gun will not alarm
them."

"Well, I will," said Joe. "I think Pete knows as well as the steed,
that shooting on him won't hurt him."

"Fire away, then," said Glenn, looking steadfastly at the deer. Joe
fired, and none of the deer ran off. Some continued their playful
sports, while others browsed along without lifting their heads; in all
likelihood the report did not reach them. But Glenn heard a tremendous
thumping behind, and on turning round, beheld his man quietly lying on
the ground, and the pony standing about ten paces distant, with his
head turned towards Joe, his ears thrust forwards, his nostrils
distended and snorting, and his little blue eyes ready to burst out of
his head.

"How is this, Joe?" inquired Glenn, scarce able to repress a smile at
the ridiculous posture of his man.

"I hardly know myself," replied Joe, casting a silly glance at his
treacherous pony; and after examining his limbs and finding no injury
had been sustained, continued, "I fired as you directed, and when the
smoke cleared away, I found myself lying just as you