"We must save our boat at any cost!" cried Captain Sumner.
As they dashed down the hill the savages turned, armed with clubs, to face them.
One was bending a bow, but a shot from Bob's gun broke his arm.
Jack also fired, and the aborigines, all save one, took to flight, jumping into one of the canoes.
This brave chief, for such he looked, wielding a heavy club with both hands, rushed at our hero.
Bob threw up his gun to parry the blow.
The weapon was struck from his hand, but the blow fell harmless.
Before the tall savage could regain his balance Bob bounded on him, clasping him round the body.
But if our hero was strong, the native was stronger.
Dropping his club, he seized his adversary's throat, and, forcing back his head, made him relinquish his hold.