This was the coveted opportunity.
"Yees have got the fellow now, Teddy, barring yees haven't got him at all, but that ain't saying ye won't get him.

Be aisy now, and don't get excited! Jist be as wise as a rat and as still as a mouse, and ye'll catch the catamount, if he don't catch you, that is." These self-admonitions were much needed, for the fellow was all tremulous with excitement and scarcely able to restrain himself.
Waiting a few moments until he could tone down his nerves, he commenced making his way toward his victim.

He exercised extreme caution until within a rod, when a twig snapped under his foot.

He made ready to spring, for he was certain of being discovered; but, to his surprise, the hunter made no motion at all.

He evidently was so absorbed in some matter as to be unconscious of what was passing around.
Slowly and stealthily Teddy glided toward the man, until he arose almost to the standing position, not more than a foot distant.