Another spattered mud in his face, and flew away, singing viciously.
At the reports the fear-harassed mob shuddered and surged forward through its entire length.
The companions of those who fired seemed to reproach them with angry gestures, pointing to the effect upon the panicky mass.

Then the whole squad rushed forward toward the hill.
Deadly fear clutched Harry Glen's heart as the angry notes of the bullets jarred on his senses.

Then pride and the animal instinct of fighting for life flamed upward.

So swiftly that he was scarcely conscious of what he was doing he snatched a cartridge from the box, tore its end between his teeth, and rammed it home.

He replaced the ramrod in its thimbles with one quick thrust, and as he raised his eyes from the nipple upon which he had placed the cap, he saw that the Rebel squad had gained the foot of the knoll and started up its side.