186 MARTIN RATTLER.

ground, they rushed upon Barney in a body; but the
first who came within reach was floored in an instant,
and the others were checked in their career by the
sudden appearance of the hermit and Martin Rattler.
The noise of many voices, as of people hastening
towards them, was heard at the same time.

“We have no time to lose; do as I bid you,” whis-
pered the hermit. Whirling a heavy stick round his
head the hermit shouted the single word “ Charge !”
and dashed forward.

Barney and Martin obeyed. Three Brazilians
went down like ninepins; the rest turned and fled
precipitately.

“Now, run for life!” cried the hermit, setting the
example. Barney hesitated to follow what he deemed
a cowardly flight, but the yells of the natives return-
ing in strong force decided the question. He and
Martin took to their heels-with right good will, and
in a few minutes the three friends were far on the
road which led to their night bivouae; while the
villagers, finding pursuit hopeless, returned to the

village, and continued the wild orgies of their festa.