Runnion threw open his gun and replaced the spent shell.

On came the careening, crazy craft in a sidewise drift, and with it the girl saw coming a terrible tragedy.

She started to run down the gravelled ridge behind her enemy, not realizing the value or moment of her action, nor knowing clearly what she would do; but as she drew near she saw Runnion raise his gun again, and, without thought of her own safety, threw herself upon him Again his shot went wide as he strove to hurl her off, but his former taste of her strength was nothing to this, now that she fought for Poleon's life.

Runnion snarled angrily and thrust her away, for he had waited till the canoe was close.
"Let me go, you devil!" he cried, and aimed again; but again she ran at him.

This time, however, she did not pit her strength against his, but paused, and as he undertook to fire she thrust at his elbow, then dodged out of his way.