A fierce exclamation close at hand, the cracking of a twig, a heavy step, and then a panther-like figure leaped out of the dusk, and flung itself upon Frank.
"Kate grasped the assailant by the collar, and with astonishing strength, pulled him off the prostrate lad." (See page [218])
CHAPTER XL.
A JEALOUS LOVER.
The attack was so sudden and fierce that the boy was hurled to the ground before he could make a move to protect himself.
"You shall not have her!" hissed a voice in his ear.
A hand fastened on his throat, pinning him fast. The man's knee crushed into his stomach, depriving him of breath. The man's other hand snatched out something, and lifted it aloft.