112 
WILD AMERICANS 
Instantly the big beaver slapped down on the water 
with his broad tail. The noise was loud, like that 
heard when water is struck with an oar or a flat 
board. 
In a twinkling the pond was quiet. Every beaver 
had disappeared! 
“Well, the show's over," Uncle Ely said, speaking 
aloud now. “That big fellow slapped his tail as a 
warning. He heard or saw Buck sneeze, and was 
afraid enemies were near. They will all stay under 
water for quite a while now. I'm hungry anyway, so 
let's go to supper." 
Buck was sad and very much chagrined as he said, 
“I'm sorry." 
But it didn't help to be sorry. 
“When you are studying wild animals in their na- 
tive homes and playgrounds, you must learn to be 
very quiet, even if you have to swallow a sneeze," 
advised Uncle Ely as they walked back to the trailer. 
