Ned smiled with satisfaction.

Pressed by danger his mind was quick.

He was where he would make his defense, and he did not think it would need to be a long one.
He settled himself well upon the top of the tumulus and drew his machete.

The dogs, six in number, coursed among the cypresses, and the leader, foam upon his mouth, leaped straight at Ned.

The boy involuntarily drew up his feet a little, but he was not shaken from the crouching position that was best suited to a blow.