Henry thought that he discerned both Alvarez and Braxton Wyatt in the foremost boat and he could imagine the rage and chagrin of both.
"I believe they're gaining," he said presently to Sol.
"Yes," replied the shiftless one, "that big boat thar is creepin' up." "Crack!" came a report and a bullet embedded itself in the stout wood of their own boat.

Both recognized the report.

It was not that of a Spanish musket, but the lashing fire of a Kentucky rifle like their own.
"That was Braxton Wyatt," said Henry.

"I thought I could make him out in that boat.

He's got a rifle that reaches and he's a danger." "Why don't you talk back ?" asked Shif'less Sol.
"I will," replied Henry.