42 THE MOOSE 



no leader at all. He had suspected it before — 

 suspected that all her ability lay in the bell she 

 wore, and he knew now. An animal fitted by 

 nature to lead and govern others never complains 

 of the incompetence of his fellows, of their short- 

 comings, incapability, and stupidity. A born leader 

 sees in these things the proof of power — the power 

 to meet and beat them. 



Moving forward in a rapid, swinging trot, the 

 moose ranged alongside the terror-stricken herd. 

 The air was growing appreciably hotter each second, 

 and high above the trees rose cindered leaves and 

 dancing sparks, which fell back to earth in a shower 

 of golden rain. The crackle of burning wood 

 sounded louder. Away to the north rolled a dense 

 pall of smoke. 



" The bell !" said the moose, commandingly. 

 " Lead the way !" 



But the cow did not move. Her limbs were 

 useless, and her eyes stared uncomprehendingly. 



The bull's horns were soft and useless; therefore, 

 because he thought so great a coward should die, 

 and quickly, he used his fore-hoofs, and with two 

 driving blows slew the cow where she stood ; and 

 as she dropped the bell jangled a dismal requiem. 



