But the noble creature had been very hard worked that day, and after the first "spurt," showed signs of exhaustion.
The Turks, upon their fresh and fleet steeds, began to gain upon her every minute.
At length she was at bay, resolved to die defending herself and defying her enemies.
She placed her lance in rest as the foremost Turk came up.
Despite his efforts to avoid the weapon, she thrust it through his shoulder.
He fell, desperately, if not mortally wounded, and full of rage at being defeated by a woman.
His nearest companion now faced the beautiful amazon, who rapidly drew her revolver—the one Jack had given her—and fired.
The ball took effect, for the Turk reeled in his saddle and fell to the ground, dead.
The others now approached.
But Thyra discharged one, two, three shots from her revolver, and the last killed the officer's horse, which staggered and fell, bringing the rider to the ground.