The thing went up with a hissing noise, a broad, brilliant streak of flame marking its course, and then fell with a terrific explosion in the very midst of the Indians.
Then there came a chorus of agonized shrieks, and three of the savages were laid dead on the ground.
Bear-Killer escaped, and fled with a loud, terrified howl into the forest.
The dead Indians were horribly mangled, and Wy-an-da’s head was blown a rod from his body.
Then all was silent save the roaring cataract and soughing wind.
Not a being was in sight, save the unconscious one who swung by a small cord between this life and the one beyond the grave!
CHAPTER V.
THE MAYBOB TWINS.
Emmett Darke went into the forest in search of game; and he was successful, for in an hour’s time he had shot and dressed a large buck.
He only took the choicest portions of the deer, which he rolled carefully up in the skin, leaving the remainder to the wolves, panthers, and other beasts of prey that infested the forest. He bound the pelt around the meat he had selected by means of deer-skin thongs through a firmly tied loop, in which he thrust his gun-barrel; and throwing his burden across his shoulder, set out for home.
He was very anxious to reach the cabin; for he could not keep his mind from dwelling on his conversation with Vinnie that afternoon, and he did not like to leave her alone longer than was necessary.