ey were more fortunate than they were warranted in expecting.
While surveying the rocks and heights which seemed to wall them in, Fred
exclaimed:

"There's our game!"

He pointed to a cliff fully two hundred yards distant, and of half that
height. On this projecting ledge stood a noble buck, with antlers and
head raised, while he seemed to be gazing over the wild expanse of
country below him. They knew he was a fine animal, though the distance
made him appear diminutive.

[Illustration: "On the projecting ledge stood a noble buck."]

"I wonder if he sees us?" said Jack in a whisper, as if afraid of being
overheard.

"If he does, he knows we are too far off to harm him."

The next instant the boys had unslung their glasses and leveled them at
the fellow, who formed a striking picture, as he stood out in bold
relief, with his spreading antlers, his fine head, and his brown, sinewy
limbs. The next remark by Jack may not have been romantic, but it was
characteristic:

"What a fine meal he will make for us!"

"Provided we can secure him. We must get a good deal nearer."

"Our rifles will carry a bullet that far."

"No doubt; but if we hit him he would be only slightly wounded and would
make off. We must go closer."

This necessity was self-evident, but the task was certain to be a
difficult one. As they approached the animal they were likely to expose
themselves to his keen gaze, when he would disappear on the instant.

"Remember what Hank said. There is twice the chance for one that there
is for two. I'll stay here, Fred, while you go on. If I see him move
I'll try it, and you must do the same. Between us, we may bring him
down."

The plan was acted upon. It was agreed that Fred should steal as near to
the buck as possible, in the hope of securing him, while Jack should
hold himself in readiness to make a shot, with precious little prospect
of success.

If the game would maintain his position it looked as if there was a good
prospect of the younger lad getting within shooting distance, for the
way was so rugged, and offered so many opportunities for screening his
approach, that he did not believe he would be detected if he used proper
care. Meanwhile Jack took position behind the nearest boulder, where he
could keep an eye on the animal and it was impossible for the latter to
see him.

Fred was lost to sight almost immediately. He grew so anxious as the
interval decreased that he trembled, and it was har