At their feet the combat was taking the gigantic proportions of an epic.
The Indians rushed with rage, and uttering loud cries, against the intrenchments, where the Americans received them with musket shots or at the point of the bayonet.
But the fire continued to increase, the soldiers fell one after another; all promised soon to be over.
To the menace of White Eyes, the captain had replied by a smile of contempt.
Quick as lightning he discharged his pistol at the hunter; the latter let his gun drop, his right arm was broken.
The captain sprang upon him with a shout of joy.
The half breed was knocked down by this unexpected shock.
Then his enemy, placing his knee upon his breast, and looking at him for an instant, said, with a bitter laugh,—
"Well! was I mistaken?"
"No," the half-breed replied in a firm tone; "I am a fool—my life belongs to you—kill me!"