He slowly raised the hammer of his rifle.

As the Indians came into plain view he saw they did not suspect his presence, but were returning on the trail in their customary cautious manner.
When the first warrior reached a big oak tree some two hundred yards distant, the long, black barrel of the hunter's rifle began slowly, almost imperceptibly, to rise, and as it reached a level the savage stepped forward from the tree.

With the sharp report of the weapon he staggered and fell.
Wetzel sprang up and knowing that his only escape was in rapid flight, with his well known yell, he bounded off at the top of his speed.

The remaining Indians discharged their guns at the fleeing, dodging figure, but without effect.

So rapidly did he dart in and out among the trees that an effectual aim was impossible.