He hastily sought to eject it, and the rifle jammed.

These little accidents will happen, even in a good weapon like the Lee-Metford.
Springing to his feet with a yell he ran forward.

The flying men caught a glimpse of him and accelerated their movements.

Just as he reached Iris they vanished among the trees.
Slinging the rifle over his shoulder, he picked up the girl in his arms.

She was conscious, but breathless.
"You are not hurt ?" he gasped, his eyes blazing into her face with an intensity that she afterwards remembered as appalling.
"No," she whispered.
"Listen," he continued in labored jerks.