It hit him full in the face and he staggered against the wall stunned by the blow.

They rushed upon the boy and disarmed and bore him to the floor.

For a little time he knew not what was passing.

When he came to, his hands and feet were tied and the men stood near, cursing and laughing, while their leader, McNoll, was draining a bottle.

Suddenly he heard a voice trembling with excitement and wet with tears saying: "You go 'way from here or I'll kill you dead.