Dazed, hurt and half stunned, she dropped to her knees, unable to stand.

With a piteous look in her eyes she shrank back from another blow which seemed impending.

Bill Briggs grasped his leader's arm and drew him away, cursing and snarling.
Late in the afternoon, Bill was permitted to conduct her into the cabin above, for a few minutes in the air, and for a glimpse of the failing sunlight.

She had scarcely taken her stand before the little window when she was hastily jerked away, but not before she thought she had perceived a crowd of men, huddling among the trees not far away.

A scream for help started to her lips; but Bill's heavy hand checked it effectually.