"That is what can't be done while I'm alive! Do you suppose I don't know why you came? You have been sent ahead to spy out the condition of his majesty's troops, and shall never go back to make a report. Keep your distance, I say!"
Jacob had endeavored to creep closer, thinking the Tory was not looking at him, and barely escaped a murderous blow from the club.
Although Master Ludwick did not accomplish anything himself, he opened the way for another to do so, and the battle was soon ended.
When the Tory struck at Jacob he put all his strength in the blow, and the impetus, as the weapon swung in the air meeting with no obstruction, caused him to reel and turn partially around.
At that instant, while he was not in a position to defend himself, Enoch flung the pistol as if it had been a rock, and, fortunately, hit the man full on the head.
He fell like one suddenly stricken dead, and Enoch shouted as he leaped over the prostrate body:
"Come on, boys! Keep your clubs, for there's no telling whom we may meet downstairs!"
At the same instant he seized his former weapon, and in two or three bounds was in the hall below.
Seth and Jacob followed closely at his heels, and the latter at once set about unfastening the front door, which was not only locked, but bolted and barred.
The noise of the conflict had alarmed the other inmates of the house, and they came running into the hall with loud screams.