This escort was almost wholly composed of strangers with Tubash.
The abductors had scarcely departed when Bright-eye came out of the hut and whistled. He was at once surrounded by warriors.
"On," he said, in a menacing voice; "there is no time to lose."
And they darted away like a whirlwind, riding for some hours in the direction taken by the bridal party.
Suddenly they were startled by flashes of light, followed by the report of guns. A terrible combat was going on.
With a tremendous war cry the troop led by Bright-eye dashed in the direction of the fight. It was time.
Numank-Charake, holding his wife on one arm, was fighting, surrounded by the few warriors faithful to him.
Ten only of these could stand, and must have succumbed in five minutes but for the unlooked-for succour.
The carnage was fearful. All fought desperately in silence. At last every one of the treacherous escort was dead.
Tubash Shah escaped in the confusion.