Instantly followed a horrible mingling of snarls and barks, and snapping of jaws as the band fought over the body of their luckless comrade.
This short delay gave the advantage to the horses.

When the wolves again appeared they were a long way behind.

The distance to the fort was now short and the horses were urged to their utmost.

The wolves kept up the chase until they reached the creek bridge and the mill.
Then they slowed up: the howling became desultory, and finally the dark forms disappeared in the thickets..