human
Why, Dave, what are you going to do with that revolver?
gpt
Phil and Roger and I are going to do some target shooting back of the barn, answered Dave Porter.
human
If we are going to try ranch life, we want to know how to shoot.
gpt
Oh! Well, do be careful! pleaded Laura Porter, as she glanced affectionately at her brother.
human
A revolver is such a dangerous thing!
gpt
We know how to handle one. Phil has been painting a big door to represent a black bear, and we are going to see if we can do as well with a revolver as we did with the rifle.
human
Do you expect to shoot bears on the ranch? I didn't see any when I was out there.
gpt
We don't expect to see them around the house, but there must be plenty of game in the mountains.
human
Oh, I presume that's true. But I shouldn't want to hunt bears--I'd be afraid,
gpt
Girls weren't meant to be hunters, answered Dave, laughing.
human
But I shouldn't consider the outing complete unless I went on at least one big hunt--and I know Phil and Roger feel the same way about it.
gpt
Hello, Dave! cried a voice from an open doorway, and a handsome lad with dark curly hair showed himself.
human
Coming?
gpt
Yes, Roger. Where is Phil?
human
Gone to the field with his wooden bear. Roger Morr looked at his chum's sister.
gpt
Want to come along and try your luck? he questioned.
human
A fine box of fudge to the one making the most bull's-eyes--I mean bear's-eyes.
gpt
No, indeed, I'd be afraid of my life even to touch a revolver, answered the girl.
human
But I'll hunt up Jessie, and maybe we'll come down after a while to look on.
gpt
Oh, you want to learn to shoot! cried Roger.
human
Then, when we get to Star Ranch, you can dress up in regular cowgirl fashion, and ride a bronco, and fire off your gun in true western style.
gpt
And have a big bear eat me up, eh? answered Laura.
human
No, thank you--I want to come back East alive. But I'll come down to the field as soon as I can find Jessie,