In Tad Butler's right hand was gripped a piece of rock that he had
grabbed when he threw himself to the ground. The boy came to his feet
as if propelled by a spring. At that second the eyes of the
mountaineer were fixed on a point several yards to the left of Tad.
Without a sound Tad let go the rock. But the movement caught the eyes
of the ruffian. He swung toward Butler at the same instant pulling
the trigger of his rifle.
Once more the rifle roared its savage protest. But that was its last
roar for the time being. Almost at the instant when he pulled the
trigger the mountaineer received Tad's rock in the pit of his stomach.
With such force had the missile been hurled that the fellow staggered
back, the rifle falling from his hands, both of which were suddenly
clasped over the part of his anatomy that had been struck.
The fellow uttered a howl of pain. He swayed and staggered then fell
over a dead limb, landing flat on his back with a crash.
Tad, without an instant's hesitation, sprang forward. The eyes of
the plucky Pony Rider Boy were flashing. Tad had not even thought to
draw his revolver. But his anger was kindled. He was dangerous in
his present mood. He did not pause to think what a terrible chance
he was taking in thus rushing forward. Fortunately for Tad, however,
the mountaineer was suffering such agonies that he either gave no
thought to the revolver that was hanging at his side, or else he was
too weak to draw it.
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