A large dog, of doubtful breed, stood before them, its head down, but its bloodshot eyes watching them cunningly.

It's dripping jaws carried conviction that the animal was rabid.
Fred did not cry out or stir.

He was too frightened to do either.
But Dave very stealthily put down the lantern.

Then, his muscles wholly steady, he snatched up an eight-foot pole that lay on the ground.
"Now, come on, you beast!" challenged Darrin, making a slight thrust with the pole.
Enraged at the challenge, the rabid dog sprang forward, its mouth wide open.

Without faltering, Dave made a thrust that jammed the pole hard into the animal's mouth.
Staggered by the blow, the dog fell back on its side.