"Somethin' comin' off," whispered Wetzel, as Zane's low growl grew unintelligible.
Jonathan felt, rather than saw, Wetzel tremble.
"The missionaries are consultin'. Ah! there comes one! Which? I guess it's Edwards. By gum! who's that Injun stalkin' over from the hostile bunch. Big chief, whoever he is. Blest if it ain't Half King!"
The watchers saw the chief wave his arm and speak with evident arrogance to Edwards, who, however, advanced to the platform and raised his hand to address the Christians.
"Crack!"
A shot rang out from the thicket. Clutching wildly at his breast, the missionary reeled back, staggered, and fell.
"One of those skulkin' redskins has killed Edwards," said Zane.
"But, no; he's not dead! He's gettin' up. Mebbe he ain't hurt bad.
By gum! there's Young comin' forward. Of all the fools!"
It was indeed true that Young had faced the Indians. Half King addressed him as he had the other; but Young raised his hand and began speaking.
"Crack!"
Another shot rang out. Young threw up his hands and fell heavily. The missionaries rushed toward him. Mr. Wells ran round the group, wringing his hands as if distracted.