On recognizing the spot, Ernest, who was in advance with one of the
dogs, hastened towards it. We lost sight of him for a few minutes, and
then arose a cry of terror, violent barking and deep, surly growls.
As we rushed forward, Ernest met us, looking white as ashes, and
calling out:
`A bear, a bear, father! He is coming after me!'
The boy clung to me in mortal fear. I felt his whole frame quivering.
`Courage, my son!' cried I, disengaging myself from his grasp. `We must
prepare for instant defence!'
The dogs dashed forward to join the fray, whatever it was; and not long
were we in doubt. To my no small consternation, an enormous bear made
his appearance, quickly followed by another.
With levelled guns, my brave Fritz and I advanced slowly to meet them.
Jack was also ready to fire, but the shock had so unnerved Ernest that
he fairly took to his heels. We fired together, one at each bear; but
though hit, the monsters were unfortunately only wounded. We found it
most difficult to take aim, as the dogs beset them on all sides.
However, they were much disabled, one having the lower jaw broken, and
the other, with a bullet in its shoulder, was effectually lamed. The
dogs, perceiving their advantage, pressed more closely round their
foes, who yet defended themselves furiously with frightful yells of
pain and rage.
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