They saw, too, it was not that which was putting Francois to his speed, for he was running directly upon it.

Something behind him occupied all his thoughts, and he did not see the alligator at all; for, although his brothers shouted to warn him, he ran on; and, stumbling over the hideous body of the reptile, fell flat upon his face--his gun pitching forward out of his hands as he fell.

He was not hurt, however, but, scrambling to his feet again, continued his race, shouting, as he emerged half breathless out of the bushes, "A bear! a bear!" Basil and Lucien, making ready their pieces, looked along the trail.
There, sure enough, was a bear coming up as fast as he could gallop.

It was at him Francois had fired.

The small shot had only served to irritate him; and, seeing such a puny antagonist as Francois, he had given chase.
At first they all thought of taking to their heels, and seeking safety by mounting their horses; but the bear had got too near, and one or other might be caught before they could reach the horses and loose them.
They resolved, therefore, to make a stand.