midnight
The fierce battle was a sight sufficient to try the nerves of much older persons than our boys . The bulls seemed simply wild with rage , and as in their mad rushes their horns struck together Frank and Alec declared that they saw fire flash from them ; others , however , said it was only auroral reflection as they turned at certain angles . Mustagan beckoned the two boys who were to have the honour of the first fire , and placing them side by side he quietly said : `` Wait until in their fighting they turn their sides to you , then aim to strike them behind the foreshoulders . '' They had not long to wait ere the double report rang out on the midnight air , and as an echo to it another one was heard not far away . That the balls struck was evident , for the thud of the bullets was heard distinctly by all , so close were they to their game . The effect of the firing on one of the bulls was seen to be immediate , for , although his huge horns seemed almost locked in those of his antagonist , he slowly sank to the ground . The other moose , although badly wounded , gave a last vicious plunge at his opponent .