"We shall very soon see that," returned Mr. Plunkett. "Go on to the island, and pull it down at once," he added, turning to the men. "I stand here till the work is begun."
"I'll set the dog on the first one of you who attempts to land," said Murtagh, resolutely.
"Do you hear what I say to you?" demanded Mr. Plunkett, as the men stood doubtfully eying Royal, who was furiously barking.
"Please, sir, the dog's very savage; he nearly killed Phelim last night," said Hickey, apologetically.
"You pair of cowards! do you mean to tell me you are afraid of the dog?" exclaimed Mr. Plunkett, contemptuously.
The men did not answer.
"Do you wish me to begin it myself?" demanded Mr. Plunkett, angrily. "I tell you that hut has to be pulled down before I leave this spot."
He moved along the bank, and prepared to jump on to a little island of shingle that lay in the bed of the stream.
"If you come one step nearer, I'll set Royal upon you," cried Murtagh, roused to the last pitch of defiance.
He and Winnie were both of them holding on to Royal's collar, and it was only with difficulty that they could restrain the dog.