This was, undoubtedly, a masterly
stroke of preparation on the part of Jerry. The torches, on the
application of the match, emitted a broad sheet of flame, which glared
upon the invaders like a sudden flash of lightning, and utterly
confounded them. It seemed like the bolt of Omnipotence thrown across
their path in the hour of their great transgression.
Maxwell was unprepared for an immediate attack. He had calculated on
effecting a junction with Vernon in the vicinity of the cottage. Before
his party had time to recover from the panic, they were surrounded by
the resolute woodmen. The attorney, who was as brave and active as he
was unprincipled and cunning, was not a man to be defeated without a
stout resistance. Encouraging his party by shouts, and by his own
example, a general engagement ensued.
Hatchie no sooner saw the foe of his mistress' peace, than, stepping
between him and Jerry Swinger, who also had an account to settle with
him, he knocked down the pistol which was levelled at his head, and
grasped him by the throat.
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