56 BIG GAME OP WORTH AMERICA. 



The Elk, though, not so wary as the Black-tailed Deer, is 

 far more difficult to approach than the Virginia Deer. It 

 has sharp scent, and unusually good eyesight; and, in 

 stalking it, these facts should be remembered. If in level 

 woods, work against the wind; when you stop, scan every- 

 thing within the range of your vision. Then, if you fail to 

 see what you are in search of, look for a tree in line with 

 you that is easy of approach; make for it as swiftly and 

 noiselessly as possible. When you reach it, keep behind 

 it and take a view, first on one side, then on the other. 

 If you see nothing, select another tree in advance, 

 and keep on as before; avoid springing on or over high 

 logs. 



If you see the slightest motion, stop instantly; the Elk 

 has a large, mule-like ear, that it is constantly moving 

 during insect-time. When you see what you think to be 

 the shadow of a passing bird or a leaping squirrel, stop. 

 If, after intently looking, you can not distinguish what it 

 is,' try and get another tree in range, and approach nearer. 

 Look close to the ground; your Elk maybe lying down. 

 Cautiously approach still nearer. When you reach the 

 spot, a covey of blue grouse rush into the air with a 

 startling whir. Pooled, weren't you? No, you were not 

 fooled; you did just as every experienced hunter would 

 have done. Again you proceed just as before, dodging 

 behind the trees, with the wind in your face. Soon you 

 reach a pebbly brook. You lay your gun down, stretch your- 

 self at full length, and imbibe; then you smack your lips. 

 Never was wine so sweet. When you raise your head, 

 an odor, subtle and sweet, greets your nostrils. It is the 

 breath of the balsams; yet no balm from Araby could be 

 more grateful. What is that sound that comes sighing 

 like the song of the sea? Nothing but the gentle breeze 

 among the cedar and fir branches overhead. 



As you step across the brook, you see a track in the 

 sand. You start! Yes, he has been here. Again you look 

 intently. The firm imprint of the sand defines the track 

 as clearly as if it had been carved there by a sculptor. 



