The projectile was none other, however, than the great desperado himself. With rare cunning, Jesse had step by step, drawn the chief's attention from his real purpose, the while occupying the time in getting into the most advantageous position for the carrying out of his plans.
The outlaw's flying body with unerring aim, hit the savage fair and square and both men went down in a heap.
Great Bear uttered a grunt of terrible rage, but could not speak. The terrific impact of Jesse's heavy body striking him, knocked all the wind out of his savage body.
But the Indian's arms suddenly closed over the desperado in a crushing grip. Jesse, tough and muscular as he was, felt that his ribs were being slowly, but relentlessly crushed in.
Neither man spoke a word at first, each playing for an advantage that would enable him to reach his knife.
One of Jesse's bowies that he held in his teeth, when he jumped, was lost at the moment his body struck that of Great Bear.
The desperado now discovered that his antagonist was working slowly toward the precipice. But whether he thought to frighten the outlaw or whatever his motive, Jesse checkmated it.
"S-s-o—that's y-o-u-r g-g-a-m-e is it?" he gritted, "you black hearted savage. All right, if you want to go over, come on."
Great Bear changed his mind instantly.
"Jess Jame um brave man. But Injun kill um," he hissed between breaths.