"Better count the rattles," he said.
"I don't want to touch the thing," said George with a shudder.
"The tail can't bite you," suggested Grant as he advanced boldly and
grasped the part of the body to which the rattles were attached and held
it up to view. It was still squirming somewhat and George turned away in
disgust. "I don't like snakes," he explained.
"I can't say that I'm very fond of them," said Grant, "but I think if you
don't want them, Pop, I'll take these rattles home with me."
"Did you count them?" demanded Zeke, who now approached the spot where the
boys were standing.
"Not yet," replied Grant. "I'll do it now."
There were thirteen rattles found in the snake and when Grant held them up
and shook them George was unable to repress the shudder that crept over
him.
"How was it, Zeke," he asked, turning to the guide, "did the fellow strike
at you?"
"No, I happened to see him moving across the rock. He's a big fellow. He
must be eight feet long," answered the guide.
"Aren't you afraid of them?" inquired George, shuddering again as he
spoke.
"Afraid? No. Why should I be afraid? They give you warning before they
strike and that's what the rattles are for.
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