but a few feet from the tree-tops when the bullet tore into
its side just back of the shoulder. It charged and crashed into the
branches, but where it charged it fell, and after a brief convulsive
struggle remained still. The fighting days of the monarch of the
trails were ended.

Hastening at once to the spot, Dane found the Colonel pinned down
amidst a tangle of branches and antlers, and unable to help himself.
With considerable difficulty the courier at last assisted him to his
feet. Apart from several bruises upon the body, the only injury was in
the left arm, on which one of the prongs had struck a glancing blow.
An instant later this same arm had been caught under the huge body and
held as in a vise. The Colonel was weak, and trembled as he
endeavoured to stand upright. Blood oozed from several scratches on
his forehead and trickled down into his white beard. But he maintained
a brave spirit, and smiled as Dane questioned him about his injuries.

"I shall be all right shortly," he said. "There are no bones broken,
for which I am most thankful. I am somewhat weak, that is all."

"Suppose we go down to the brook and let me bathe your face," Dane
suggested. "It is not far, and you can lean on me."

Supported by the courier, the Colonel slowly made his way along the
border of the meadow to the little brook which flowed sluggishly
through a mass of wild grass and alders. Here Dane brought forth a
piece of soft cloth from one of his pockets, with which he washed away
the blood stains from the Colonel's forehead and beard. Then from a
small wooden tube he produced some salve-like ointment which he applied
to the wounds, thus giving immediate relief.

"I see you are well prepared for emergencies," the Colonel remarked,
both interested and pleased at the young man's skill and attention.

"Experience has taught me to be always ready," Dane replied. "One
never knows what is going to happen in the woods, so a few bandages are
very handy. That ointment, too, is useful. It is a simple Indian
remedy, but very effective."

The Colonel made no further comment, but lay upon the ground lost in
thought. There was a far-away look in his eyes, which caused Dane to
wonder what he was thinking about. At length he aroused and turned
toward his companion.

"Young man," he began, "I am greatly indebted to you for saving my
life to-day. But for your prompt action that moose would have crushed
me to death in a shor