Chapter 45. The Subjugation of Hoag
A feller as weeps for pity and never does a finger-tap to help
is 'bout as much use as an overcoat on a drowning man. -- Sayings
of Si Sylvanne.
SOME remarkable changes of weather made some remarkable changes
in their plan and saved their enemy from immediate molestation.
For two weeks it was a succession of thaws and there was much
rain. The lake was covered with six inches of water; the river
had a current above the ice, that was rapidly eating, the latter
away. Everywhere there were slush and wet snow that put an end
to travel and brought on the spring with a rush.
Each night there was, indeed, a trifling frost, but each day's
sun seemed stronger, and broad, bare patches of ground appeared
on all sunny slopes.
On the first crisp day the trappers set out to go the rounds,
knowing full well that this was the end of the season.
Henceforth for six months deadfall and snare would lie idle and
unset.
They went their accustomed line, carrying their snowshoes, but
rarely needing them. Then they crossed a large track to which
Quonab pointed, and grunted affirmatively as Rolf said "Bear?"
Yes! the bears were about once more; their winter sleep was over.
Pages:
218
219
220
221
222
223
224
225
226
227
228
229
230
231
232
233
234
235
236
237
238
239
240
241
242