Then he swung forward and the end of a pick-handle missed Drummond by an inch.
Another cutter shot from Drummond's hand and struck Driscoll's side.

He stooped, and Thirlwell thought he was falling but saw that he had bent down to pick up his ax.

Next moment the blade flashed in a long sweep and Drummond sprang behind the anvil, which occupied the middle of the floor.

He had another cutter and held it back, with his arm bent, ready to launch it at Driscoll's head, but Thirlwell imagined he was pressed too hard to feel sure of his aim and wanted to get out of his antagonist's reach.

It was plain that the situation was dangerous, but Thirlwell knew he could not stop the men by shouting, and the fight would probably be over before he reached the shack.