human
See here, said Archie, as he drew out two queer-looking implements;
gpt
I have been acting on the suggestion of Uncle Joe Lewis.
human
What are they?
gpt
They are spears,
human
So I see; but what use can you put them to?
gpt
This, said Archie, taking up the rod of steel,
human
Yes, said Frank,
gpt
I remember it very well; and, I guess, there were some mad boys around that place, somewhere.
human
Yes, said Archie,
gpt
I was provoked because it was all my fault that we lost him. If we had had this spear, we could have killed him easy enough. We wouldn't be obliged to cut a hole larger than an inch square, and no mink I ever saw could get through that. And this, he continued, taking up the other instrument,
human
And, by the time you get that done, said Frank, with a laugh,
gpt
I know that; they will undoubtedly start off the first blow you strike, and swim to some breathing-hole; but in a quarter of an hour they will be sure to return. While they are gone, you will have plenty of time to cut the chunk, and, after taking it out, place it carefully back, in such a manner that it can be removed instantly; then, if there are any other houses near, serve them in the same way. Then, in half an hour or so, take your spear and go to the houses, making as little noise at possible, and let your companion lift out the chunk suddenly, and you be ready to strike. Father says he has seen Uncle Joe Lewis catch half a dozen in one house, in this way, very frequently. He always spears the one nearest the passage that leads from the house down into the water, and this will prevent the others from escaping.
human
I don't much like the idea,
gpt
Neither do I, said Archie.
human
It will do well enough for those who make their living by hunting; but, if I want to hunt muskrats, I would rather wait until the ice breaks up, in spring; I can then shoot them quite fast enough to suit me, and the sport is more exciting.