"Keep back there, boys. Please don't get too close. He is liable to
break out at any time. He is a small bear, but there is no telling
what he may do in his rage when he emerges," warned the Professor.

"We're not afraid," answered Ned.

The boys, having no weapons, had armed themselves with clubs,
prepared to do battle with their visitor should he chance to come
their way.

"What's that racket over there in the bushes?" demanded Ned,
wheeling sharply.

"It's the ponies," answered Tad, darting away.

At last the little animals had discovered the presence of the bear
in camp and were making frantic efforts to break their tethers.

"Come over here, some of you. The bronchos are having a fit. I can't
manage all of them at once," called Tad in an excited tone.

"What's the matter--are they afraid?" called the Professor.

"I should say they are. They'll get away from me if you don't
hurry."

Leaving the hear to his own desperate efforts, the boys rushed to
the aid of Tad Butler. They were not quick enough, however.