Despite the danger Bowie and most of his men were still compelled to work at the fire.

The room was full of smoke, and behind them the horses were yet struggling with those who held them.
The Ring Tailed Panther lay down and resting himself on one elbow took aim with his rifle.

He was almost clear of the smoke which hung in a bank above him.

Ned noticed him and imitated him.

He saw a dusky figure outside and when he fired it fell.