The natives were at a distance along the ledge, evidently with no intention of attacking a foe of whom they felt sure.

A taunting shout was raised and an arrow flew towards him, but he instantly withdrew his head and ran back to the platform.
A minute later there was a fierce growl and the bear rushed out.

The brushwood was scattered as, checked suddenly in its rush by the noose, the animal rose on its hind legs.

In an instant the spear of Nessus was plunged deeply into it on one side, while Malchus buried his sword to the hilt in its body under the fore shoulder of the other.

Stabbed to the heart, the beast fell prostrate.