"Those forests look like there might be anything in them," observed Joe, directing his glance at the towering wooded slopes. "We'll see in a short time," said his father, fumbling his rifle. The foothills over which they were passing were, for the most part, bare and devoid of heavy vegetation. But a little later they came to a region that gradually sloped upward, and less than an hour's traveling brought them to the base of a high, sloping mountain, which was covered with a dense forest. With renewed efforts they began the task of climbing, keeping a sharp lookout for any wild animals that might dart out in front of them. "About all the wild animals to be found here are rabbits, jackals, hyenas, panthers, and a very few lions," said Mr. Holton, as they trudged up the hill. Luckily there were no sharp cliffs to be scaled. Instead, the way was gradual, unbroken. "I'd like to get a glimpse of one of those queer creatures that have been reported to exist in these woods," remarked Mr. Holton with a smile. "What's that?" asked Joe. "Another Arabian myth, most likely. At any rate I know of nobody who has ever been fortunate enough to see one. It is supposed to be about the size of a badger and is a very peculiar combination of six or more well-known animals. The face, eyes, tail, abdomen, and other body regions are supposed to be taken from other creatures; and all the details are very accurate and convincing, to hear the Arab tell it. Again arises the question of where such queer conceptions get into his head." As they hiked on, Bob and Joe began to get behind their elders. There was much to be seen in the way of odd plants and colorful flowers, and their attention was continually diverted from one thing to another. "I suppose when we get as seasoned in the art of exploring as our dads we'll not notice such minorities," said Bob. "But right now----" He stopped suddenly as he caught sight of something that made his blood turn cold. Not five feet away was a huge wild boar, showing its terrible tusks savagely as it prepared to rush at the youths. CHAPTER VII Good News "What is it?" cried Joe, as he noticed the look of anxiety on his chum's face. For answer, Bob pointed to the wild boar, and as Joe glanced around he shrank back in consternation. "Quick!" he cried. "It's going to charge!" There was no time to lose. The animal, angered because cornered, was getting ready to stand its ground savagely. And the boys had heard of the wild boar's terrible ferocity. Almost in unison the youths raised their rifles and took careful aim. The guns were of only twenty-two caliber, not any too powerful for the occasion, but the chance had to be taken. "Now," murmured Bob, holding his rifle in a steady position. Bang! Bang! Two shots rang out, and each found the mark. But the small bullets did not stop the beast's charge, and it came on with horrible atrocity. "Run!" cried Bob, his nerve completely gone. "Let's go up a tree!"