You two bring down the man with the head-piece, and I will hold myself ready if you miss.

Ma foi! they are about to loose her.

Shoot, mes garcons, or you will be too late." The throng of pirates had cleared away from the great wooden catapult, leaving two of their number to discharge it.

One in a scarlet cap bent over it, steadying the jagged rock which was balanced on the spoon-shaped end of the long wooden lever.

The other held the loop of the rope which would release the catch and send the unwieldy missile hurtling through the air.