"He isn't good for much."
"We could keep the skin--or have him stuffed," suggested Phil.
"Let us take him back to the ranch--so that the folks can see we really
killed him," said Dave. "Then we might have him stuffed and sent to Oak
Hall, to put in the museum."
"Just the thing!" cried the senator's son. "That will please Doctor
Clay, I am sure."
They dragged the wildcat out into the open, and laid it where the horses
might see that it was dead. As soon as they were aware of this, the
steeds quieted down completely, and the boys had no more trouble with
them. Dave and Phil carried the grouse and the fish, and Roger slung the
wildcat up behind his saddle, and then off they set for Star Ranch at a
gallop.
"Here come the fishermen!" cried Laura, who was out in front of the
ranch house. "I hope you had luck!"
"We did," answered Dave, gayly. "How is that?" and he held up a string
of fish.
"Splendid, Dave!"
"And how is that?" he went on, holding up two of the grouse.
"I declare, some game, too! Why, you've had good luck, haven't you!"
"Let me see!" said Belle, as she appeared, followed by Jessie.
"And how is this?" asked Phil, showing his fish and the rest of the
game.
"Oh, how grand!" murmured Belle.
"What is that Roger has?" questioned Jessie.
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