132 WILD BROTHER 
there is no way to obtain any positive data. 
Here in New England, where each year a host of 
hunters and trappers are roaming through the 
forest, Bruin’s life is not an easy one. Every man 
is his enemy. I have talked with many hunters, 
and the general opinion seems to be that wild 
bears of this region seldom reach an age of more 
than five or six years. By that time they have 
either been shot or caught in traps. Bruno’s life 
had been one of ease and comfort, free from the 
strife and tragedy that is usually the lot of his wild 
brethren of his native woods. 
Our bear had gone, but the memory of him was 
destined to live for many years to come. 
In spite of many willing hands that reached out 
to help, things went badly with the Weldons. The 
injured foot grew worse, and after a year of suf- 
fering, Mr. Weldon went to a hospital and had an 
operation performed. This afforded some relief, 
but no permanent cure, and he was incapacitated 
for the greater part of the time. It was a constant 
struggle for the brave little family to keep their 
heads above water. Twice within three years they 
were obliged to change their home. Though they did 
not let me know of their straitened circumstances, 
I was fortunately able, through the aid of friends 
in Maine, to keep informed with regard to them. 
