The meeting was probably as little expected by him as it was by Henry, and they were so close together when they saw each other that neither had time to raise his rifle.

The warrior, a tall, powerful man, dropping his gun and snatching out a knife, sprang at once upon his enemy.
Henry was borne back by the weight and impact, but, making an immense effort, he recovered himself and, seizing the wrist of the Indian's knife hand, exerted all his great strength.

The warrior wished to change the weapon from his right band, but he dared not let go with the other lest he be thrown down at once, and with great violence.

His first rush having failed, he was now at a disadvantage, as the Indian is not generally a wrestler.

Henry pushed him back, and his hand closed tighter and tighter around the red wrist.