With one of the heavier ones he could have killed the man, but the fellow was only acting under the orders of his employer, and, although he would doubtless, at Ben Soloman's commands, have roasted him alive without compunction, he had not behaved with any unkindness, and had, indeed, seemed to do his best for him.
Taking the stick, he went to the door.

He trod lightly, but in the stillness of the forest the man heard him, and glanced round as he came out.
Seeing the stick in his hand he leaped up, exclaiming, "You young fool!" and sprang towards him.
He had scarce time to feel surprise, as Charlie quickly raised the club.

It described a swift sweep, fell full on his head, and he dropped to the ground as if shot.
Charlie ran in again, seized a coil of rope, bound his hands and feet securely, and dragged him into the hut.

Then he dashed some cold water on his face.

The man opened his eyes, and tried to move.
"You are too tightly bound to move, Pauloff," he said.