Presently, however, the young Boer made another attempt, putting out his hand to give her a slight push.

As it happened John saw this, and the sight of the indignity caused the blood to boil in his veins.

Before he could reflect on what he was doing he was alongside of the man, and, catching him by the throat, had hurled him backwards over his crupper with all the force he could command.

Jacobus fell heavily upon his shoulders, and instantly there was a great hubbub.

John drew his revolver, and the other Boers raised their rifles, so that Jess thought there was an end of it, and put her hand before her face, having first thanked John for avenging the insult with a swift flash of her beautiful eyes.