They listened to the dwindling noise of the chase, and Compton stirred up the fire.
"What's up now, eh ?" "It," said Venning, referring to the leopard, "is after something, don't you think ?" "I hope to goodness it will have a good run, then." But even as he spoke the sound of the chase grew; the smaller animal flashed by again with the savage pursuer at its heels, flew round the trees, and leapt inside--leapt in and pressed itself down behind the two of them.

With a snarl, the leopard stopped before the smouldering logs, and then sprang on to the roof, at which it struck two or three tremendous blows before bounding off again.
"Where's my knife ?" yelled Compton.
Venning felt a warm tongue on his hand, and drew it away with a cry, as if he had been stung.
"Use your knife, man.

I'm blinded." "All right," gasped Venning.
"Feel for it first, or you'll be hitting me.

Quick! I say." "What is it ?" cried Venning, alarmed at the sudden change in Compton's tones from rage to alarm.
"Something's pulling me.

It's got its arm through the side." There was a sudden fierce yap and a snapping of jaws.