Why the Uhlans did not attempt to force an entrance through the rear of the house, which was absolutely undefended, Rod never could tell. Perhaps they were of the “one-idea” class of men, who, having made up their minds to do a thing in a certain way, could not deviate from the plan they had laid out.
Rod saw his chance to break up that next assault if only his aim were true. He thrust his weapon forward, finding plenty of room for his purpose. While he did not claim to be much of a shot with such a clumsy weapon as he now held, at the same time the boy knew considerable about firearms in general, and that counted for a whole lot.
Besides, the distance was ridiculously scant, and really Rod would have been deeply mortified had he missed his aim under the circumstances.
He meant to wound the leader by shooting him in the leg, and with that intention in view aimed low when pulling the trigger. The five Uhlans had actually started on the run at the time, so that they might strike the tottering door a tremendous blow, and complete matters with one fell swoop, which would give them entrance to the house.
Josh, who was peeping over Rod’s shoulder, gave a howl of delight when through the little puff of smoke that followed the feeble crack of the revolver he saw the big leader suddenly crumple up, and, falling in a heap, bring every one of his companions down in a struggling mass.
“A great shot, Rod, a magnificent hit!” was the burden of his shout; “pinked the whole five at a clip! Splendid work, let me tell you, Rod! However did you manage to do it?”
Apparently, Josh had allowed his enthusiasm to run away with his better judgment, for he imagined that in some mysterious manner the missile from Rod’s weapon had split in sections, and scattered like a load of bird shot, bringing down victims by the wholesale.
However that might be, Josh speedily realized his error, for a number of the soldiers were already struggling to their feet. Only one remained on the ground, and he was hugging his left leg as though in sudden anguish, a fact that sent a qualm of regret through Rod’s heart.
He hoped they would draw off now, and give up the attempt for a little time at least. True, there were five more charges in his gun, and only four of the Uhlans, so that it seemed as though he might be equal to the task of holding them in check, but one victim was enough to satisfy him.
“They’re going to try it again, Rod!” cried Josh, shrilly.