I 3 2 WILD BROTHER 



there is no way to obtain any positive data. 



Here in New England, where each year a host of 

 hunters and trappers are roaming through the 

 forest, Bruin's life is not an easy one. Every man 

 is his enemy. I have talked with many hunters, 

 and the general opinion seems to be that wild 

 bears of this region seldom reach an age of more 

 than five or six years. By that time they have 

 either been shot or caught in traps. Bruno's life 

 had been one of ease and comfort, free from the 

 strife and tragedy that is usually the lot of his wild 

 brethren of his native woods. 



Our bear had gone, but the memory of him was 

 destined to live for many years to come. 



In spite of many willing hands that reached out 

 to help, things went badly with the Weldons. The 

 injured foot grew worse, and after a year of suf- 

 fering, Mr. Weldon went to a hospital and had an 

 operation performed. This afforded some relief, 

 but no permanent cure, and he was incapacitated 

 for the greater part of the time. It was a constant 

 struggle for the brave little family to keep their 

 heads above water. Twice within three years they 

 were obliged to change their home. Though they did 

 not let me know of their straitened circumstances, 

 I was fortunately able, through the aid of friends 

 in Maine, to keep informed with regard to them. 



