Paul, looking through the loophole on his own side of the cabin, could see nothing for a little space, but presently arose a patter of feet, and many forms darted through the dusk toward the cabin.

He quickly fired one rifle, and then the other, but whether his bullets hit he could not tell.
Then heavy forms thudded against the log walls of the hut, and through the loophole he heard deep breathing.
"They've gained the side of the cabin," said Henry, "and we can't reach 'em with our rifles now." "I did my best, Henry," said Paul ruefully.

Conflict did not appeal to him, but the wilderness left no choice.
"Of course, Paul," said Henry, with every appearance of cheerfulness, "it's not your fault.

In such darkness as this they were bound to get there.

But they are not inside yet by a long sight.