THE WILD. 



and a determined bearing in overawing brute 

 animals; and, springing to his feet, he stepped 

 upon the little ledge surrounding the hole, when 

 drawing. himself up to his full height, he waved 

 his large blanket with both hands, at the same 

 time addressing his certainly attentive audience in 

 a loud and solemn tone. This had the desired 

 effect : the wild dogs shrank to a more respectful 

 distance, barking at him like so many colleys. 

 Upon this he began to load his rifle, and before 

 this was accomplished the entire pack had re- 

 treated.* 



* "The Lion Hunter," chap. ix. 



227 



