An answering shot came almost instantly. Joseph could hear the bullet cut through the branches directly above him, and involuntarily he drew back farther behind his shelter. Scarcely had the report of the rifle died away when an unearthly yell rent the air. Then before Joseph’s eyes was enacted an awful scene.
He saw Deerfoot suddenly spring to his feet, appearing as if by magic from the tall grass at the foot of the tree behind which his enemy was located. The shining, painted body of the Pottowattomie appeared like some strange monster in the half light of the coming night. His war cry echoed far out over the marsh, while in one hand he grasped his rifle, and in the other was his tomahawk. With one bound he flung himself upon his adversary.
Joseph could see the flash of Deerfoot’s hatchet as it was raised to strike. He could almost feel the shock of the two men’s bodies as they came together and then the struggle passed out of his range of vision. He hastily reloaded his gun and turned to Robert.
“Come on, Bob!” he cried. “We must help Deerfoot!”
“You can count on me,” replied Robert quickly, and together the two boys started forward to the aid of their friend. It was a dangerous mission on which they were embarking, but neither boy gave any heed to his own peril. To help Deerfoot was their only thought and though they were not sure that their loyal friend was in need of aid, they were determined to be on hand in case such a need should arise.
“Keep low, Bob,” warned Joseph.
“I’m as low as I can get now!” exclaimed Robert. “I’m almost bent double as it is.”
“That’s the way to be. Now hurry as fast as you can.”
The two brothers darted forward, rifle in hand. Crouching low and running swiftly they hastened to Deerfoot’s assistance.
“Come back!” shouted some one of their comrades in alarm as he saw what the two boys were attempting. No attention was paid to this bit of advice, however, and the boys merely increased their speed. A bullet scudded over their heads, and then another struck the ground just in front of them. On they went, however, each boy fearful lest he should be too late in bringing aid to their faithful ally.