Above all, my heart was wrung for the Kohen, who was there in the midst of his people, lifting his frail and puny arm against the monster.

I could endure inaction no longer.

I had brought my arms with me, as usual; and now, as the monster raised his head, I took aim at his eye and fired.

The report rang out in thunder.

Almah gave a shriek, and amid the smoke I saw the long, snake-like neck of the monster sweeping about madly among the men.