The report of the gun was followed by a longdrawn howl from the huge dog.
“Quick!” cried Bob. “The other dog!”
The second beast was rushing forward angrily.
Mr. Lewis again took aim. The others, trusting in his marksmanship, made no move to get their rifles.
Click! There was no report this time. His magazine was empty!
Mr. Holton tried vainly to get his rifle out in time. Something must be done at once, for the savage dog would be at the camels in but a moment.
Suddenly Joe leaped from his camel directly in the path of the oncoming animal. The dog stopped for a second, then rushed at the youth with terrible ferocity.
“It’s now or never!” Joe thought and brought the butt of his rifle down with all his strength on the dog’s head.
There was a cry of pain, and the next moment the beast rolled over in a dazed condition. At last the terrible enemies had been overcome.
“Great work, Joe!” praised Mr. Holton. “We weren’t expecting to see you act so quickly.”