44 SPORT IN NORTH AMERICA. 



foes too well to run away from tliem, for that would 

 liave been the signal for a general attack. The only 

 chance of escape was to get to the borders of the 

 forest; for the wolves were not likely to quit the 

 shelter of the trees. He knew moreover that in the 

 middle of the clearing was a deserted cabin, and he 

 hoped to gain its shelter. The wolves grew bolder 

 every moment, and to whatever side the unfortu- 

 nate negro turned he saw glaring eyes menacing 

 him in every direction. Having no stick, the poor 

 fellow resolved to try the effect of his fiddle, and at 

 the first stroke of his bow upon the strings, the 

 wolves darted back, surprised by the unaccustomed 

 music. In this manner, poor Dick was able to 

 reach the clearing, and gain the shelter of the cabin, 

 for directly he touched the strings, the wolves drev/ 

 back. In spite of his having reached the clearing, 

 however, the wolves gave chase, but fortunately he 

 got to the cabin before they overtook him, and he 

 was able to push to and bolt the door and mount up 

 into the roof. Here he was comparatively secure 

 from danger, albeit some of the wolves had gained 

 admission into the cabin and were endeavouring, 

 with all their might, to reach the legs of the imfor- 

 tunate fiddler. 



In spite of all his woes, Dick had not abandoned 

 his fiddle, which had rendered him such good 

 service in the forest. Grasping his bow with a firm 

 hold, he struck a treble chord which could be heard 



