Page:Hugh Pendexter--The young timber-cruisers.djvu/233

 Once I got control of myself I proceeded with more caution. But I was about to drop when he fired the last time. That spurred me on. Then came a shot as I thought in front—”

“That was mine. I saw the bushes wriggle and let drive to take up his attention,” proudly informed Bub.

“Well, I hardly dared hope it was either of you. I thought my ears must be playing tricks on me. Anyway, I couldn’t have gone many rods farther when Abner and you gave the grand fusillade. That spurred me up wonderfully.”

“And ye had the nerve to clash with Nick and clout him with the club!” admired Abner, now holding Stanley’s trembling hand in both of his. “O why should a half-breed’s skull be so tough, and why didn’t ye finish him! And to think ye dared jump him! To think ye had brains enough to remember the decoy trick and draw his fire! And to think ye realized it was all necessary before lamming him! Red, I’m proud of ye.”

“But, Mr. Whitten,” remonstrated Stanley, reddening beyond the tinge caused by his exertions; “I did nothing except what I was forced to do. I deserve no credit. I was desperate because I was cornered. I had to do it.”