60 THE POACHER'S RELIGION. 



way, and gradually came nearer, all unsuspicious of the 

 hidden danger ; at length the much-coveted prize was 

 within range. With a bullet the practised eye of the 

 poacher could have made sure of him ; but with the 

 means he had at hand Bob doubted his powers. 



Still, however, Hope, " heaven-born maid," whispered 

 encouragement ; and now the animal was within fifty 

 yards, he began to snuff the air suspiciously, and no 

 time was to be lost. A keen eye glanced down the 

 barrel cautiously projected over the edge of the rock, a 

 steady finger pulled the trigger, a sharp report awoke 

 the echoes of the rocks around, and the stag fell ; while 

 the remaining two took to flight and scoured across 

 the moor. Having no 'second barrel in reserve, there 

 was nothing for it but to rush in, and if possible termi- 

 nate the matter with the knife. Scarcely, however, 

 had he approached within ten paces of the prostrate 

 deer, when it suddenly sprang to its feet, charged Rob, 

 and overthrew though without seriously hurting him, 

 and then made off at a surprising rate for the hill. 

 Ruefully rose the poacher from the ground, shook him- 

 self, and gazed disconsolately after the receding beauty. 

 He saw distinctly that the animal's movements were 

 made with difficulty, and that he must soon come to a 

 stop. Once more therefore, he loaded with slugs, and 

 followed, as fast as his shaken limbs, the rough nature 

 of the ground, and the waning light of day would 

 allow. But he gradually lost all sight and trace of the 

 deer ; and as it grew dark he was compelled reluctantly 

 to give up the search. On the morrow he felt sure he 

 should find the stag stiff and feeble, and then a bullet 

 brought from his stock at home would speedily decide the 

 event. But then came the unpleasant recollection that 

 the morrow was the Sabbath ; and Rob, like many more 



