“That shows the wisdom of keeping together,” said Jack. “After this we will make it a point to go out together, or, at least; in pairs--never alone.” The journey up the creek was resumed, and they kept on until at least a mile and a half had been covered. “Now I move we go back,” said Jack. “It is getting late. To-morrow we can start out early, for there will be nothing to do around the camp after breakfast, which we ought to have by seven o’clock.” The others were tired and readily agreed. They had not seen any deer, but had found a run, and they were certain that, sooner or later, they would strike one or more of the much-prized beasts. About a quarter of the distance to camp was covered, when, without warning, a doleful sound reached their ears, coming from directly in front of them. “What’s that?” asked Andy, as he came to a halt. “Wolves!” cried Jack. “I did not think there were any in this section!” “The heavy snow has driven them out to look for food,” put in Harry. “We may have trouble with them.” “We can shoot them,” said Boxy. “And they--here they come now!” Boxy had hardly uttered the words when from a thicket rushed five lean and savage-looking wolves, snapping and snarling as they came toward the boys. All fired their guns, and two of the wolves went down, mortally wounded. The others kept on, yelping and barking with increased savageness. “Run for it!” yelled Jack. “They will tear us to pieces if they once get at us!” And run they did, trying to load their firearms as they went. Soon the wolves were close at their heels! CHAPTER XIX. THE LAST OF THE WOLVES. It certainly looked as if matters would turn out seriously for the five boys. The three remaining wolves were close at their heels, and so far no one but Jack had succeeded in reloading his gun. The boys thought it odd that the three wolves did not stop to devour their dead companions. The truth was that every one of the savage beasts had received a portion of the scattering shot and was so enraged that it thought only of attack. As soon as he had his firearm ready for use, Jack wheeled about and took hasty aim. Bang! went the gun, and the foremost of the wolves keeled over, shot through the head. “Good for you, Jack!” panted his brother. “I wish I could knock another of them!” “Sling your guns over your shoulders and jump for the tree limbs!” called out Boxy, and an instant later he made a leap and drew himself up into a tree, where he was safe for the time being. Andy quickly followed his example, and Jack did the same. Harry was just finishing loading, and kept on running. The two wolves did not stop running, but went after Harry, snarling and yelping directly at his heels. Then, with a lightninglike movement, the brave boy swung around, and, without bringing his gun to his shoulder, fired almost directly into the open mouth of the leading beast. With hardly a sound, the wolf toppled over, knocking his companion down as he fell.