Four against one would, in ordinary cases, be fearful odds; but Shawn knew that he had two stanch and faithful friends to support him.

Quick as lightning his _middogue_ was into one of their hearts, and almost as quickly were two more of them seized by the throats and dragged down by the powerful animals that defended him.

The fourth man was as rapidly despatched by a single blow, whilst the dogs were literally tearing out the throats of their victims.

In the course of about ten minutes, what between Shawn's middogue and the terrible fangs and strength of those dreadful animals, the four men lay there four corpses.

Shawn's danger, however, notwithstanding his success, was only increasing.