Robinson followed the good example, but they did not seem very successful in attracting attention to themselves.
Two dark figures were seen scudding through the orchard, and then a man came out of the house, slamming the door and shouting: "Sick 'em, Tige--sick the pesky rascals! Chaw 'em up! Don't let 'em git erway! Take 'em, dorg!" The dog was doing his duty in the vicinity of one of the sheds, but his barking suddenly turned to howls of pain, and several blows were distinctly heard.
Despite the two yelling and dancing lads in the road, the old farmer made for the shed, and it was seen that he had a gun in his hands.
"He's going to shoot somebody!" cried Harry, wildly.

"We must hake a tand--er--take a hand in this! Come on!" With all the speed he could command Rattleton dashed after the farmer.
The barking of the dog had suddenly ceased, and a third dark figure was seen scudding through the orchard.
"Stop, you pesky thief!" yelled the farmer.

"If you don't stop I'll shoot! I'll fire ye full of lead!" Then he halted and raised his gun to his shoulder.

He was quite unaware that Harry was now quite close upon him.
When Rattleton saw the man raise the gun he swung back the hand that held the heavy stick.

With all his strength he hurled the stick at the farmer.
Whiz! It sped through the air and struck the man fairly between the shoulders.