"Poor profissor!" he exclaimed. "It's loikely the divvils will finish him now."
The Danites stood over the man, who had fallen on his face, and lay in a huddled heap. They were talking loudly and making excited gestures. It was plain that they were discussing the advisability of dispatching Professor Scotch without delay, and, judging from his movements, the man with the short white beard was for finishing him without delay. Twice the man pointed his revolver at the prostrate figure, and twice a younger man seemed to urge him to spare the unlucky man's life.
"If he shoots, I'll try a shot at him from here!" cried Frank. "I may not be able to reach him, but I'll try it."
A third time the man pointed his revolver at the motionless form of the man who lay huddled on the ground. This time no one of the group interfered; all stood back, and the younger man, who had twice saved Scotch's life, turned away, plainly unwilling to witness the deed.
"He's going to shoot!" panted Frank, pulling forward his rifle, and bringing it to his shoulder. "I will----"
"Wait a bit, me b'y. Look there! Th' litthle girrul is thrying to save him."
Miskel had rushed into the midst of the men, and she was seen pleading with the man who seemed determined to kill the professor. At first, it seemed that she would fail, but she finally prevailed, and the man put up his weapon, with a gesture of angry impatience. Then he seemed to give some orders, and the unconscious captive was lifted and carried toward the camp.
"He is saved for the time," breathed Frank, with relief; "but it is simply a respite."
"Yes, it is better than nothing. Barney, I have a scheme."
"Spake out, Frankie. Me ears are woide open to-night."
"If they spare Professor Scotch till to-night, we will go down there and attempt his rescue."
They watched the men bear the unfortunate professor into the camp, and noted carefully the building into which the man was taken.
"We must make no mistake to-night, Barney. It is our duty to do our best to save Professor Scotch."
"An' we'll do our duty av we nivver do anything ilse, begorra!"
"You are bold lads," said a voice behind them; "but you cannot save him from Uric Dugan."
They whirled swiftly, and found Old Solitary had come up behind them, without being heard.