One shot, and a score of lives were done, and dark indeed would be this night in Ellisville.
Suddenly the climax came.

The door was thrust irresistibly open, not from without, but from within.

Stooping, so that his head might clear its top, the enormous figure of Juan, the Mexican, appeared in the opening.

He looked out, ignorant of the real reason of this tumult, yet snuffing conflict as does the bear not yet assailed.

His face, dull and impassive, was just beginning to light up with suspicion and slow rage.
A roar of anger and excitement rose as the prisoner was seen standing there before them, though outlined only by the dim light of the sky.
Every man in the assailing party sprang toward the building.