I kept low lest Rogerson should see me, but he was obviously more than half drunk, and was chiefly occupied in regarding his comrades with anything but a pleasant air.
Just as I was drawing a beautiful bead however, and had well covered Colliver, he saw me and gave the alarm; and immediately the three sprang to their feet and made for me, the Chinaman first.

Altering my aim I waited until he came close and then fired.

I must have hit him, I think in the ankle, for he staggered and fell with a loud cry about ten paces from me.

Seeing this, I made all speed again down the ladder, turning at the cabin door for a hasty shot with the second barrel, which, I think, missed.

The other two pursued me until I gained the cabin, and then went back to their comrade.
The rest of the day has been quite quiet.