196 HUNTING SPORTS OF THE WEST. 



his heart. Mr. Caruthers had nothing in his hand hut 

 a bridle, and could therefore bring no weapon to the as- 

 sistance of his friends, hut such dry clubs as lay about 

 him. The animal paid very little attention to these ; 

 but at length finding a young sappling, he broke it into 

 a good stick, and managed to give several hard knocks, 

 repeatedly on the same spot, just behind the ear. By 

 this means he was killed, and the dog released. 



By the assistance of a large and valuable wolf dog, ; 

 Mr. D. Preston and Mr. Drake Fellows killed one with 

 clubs and stones, at the south end of " Stony Hill." 



If the body of a hog was recovered partly eaten, the 

 same bear could generally be taken in a trap, within 

 the next twenty-four hours. He invariably returned 

 for the remainder, and showed little or no sagacity in 

 avoiding his fate. For this purpose, a heavy steel trap 

 was used, with smooth jaws and a long drag 'chain, with 

 iron claws at the extremity. It was not fastened to the 

 spot, because the great strength of the animal would 

 enable him to free himself, but as he ran, after being 

 caught, the claws would catch upon the brush, retarding 

 his flight, and leaving a distinct trail. He was gene- 

 rally overtaken within two miles, exhausted of strength. 

 Here the dogs were first allowed an 'opportunity to ex- 

 hibit their courage and natural animosity, before the 

 rifle put an end to his degradation and sufferings. In 

 these conflicts if the shackles were upon his hind legs, 

 leaving the fore paws free, there were but few dogs de- 

 sirous of a close combat the second time. 



In the winter of 1824-5, the inhabitants of this and 

 the adjoining townships, determined to make an effort to 



