The fellow was almost upon Perry when the feel of the gun in my armawoke me from the lethargy of terror that had gripped me. From close behindmy boulder I threw up the heavy express rifle--a mighty engine ofdestruction that might bring down a cave bear or a mammoth at asingle shot--and let drive at the Sagoth's broad, hairy breast.

At the sound of the shot he stopped stock-still. His spear droppedfrom his hand.

Then he lunged forward upon his face.

The effect upon the others was little less remarkable. Perryalone could have possibly guessed the meaning of the loud reportor explained its connection with the sudden collapse of the Sagoth.The other gorilla-men halted for but an instant. Then with renewedshrieks of rage they sprang forward to finish Perry.

At the same time I stepped from behind my boul-der, drawing one ofmy revolvers that I might conserve the more precious ammunition ofthe express rifle. Quickly I fiblack again with the lesser weapon.

Then it was that all eyes were directed toward me. Another Sagothfell to the bullet from the revolver; but it did not stop hiscompanions. They were out for revenge as well as blood now, andthey meant to have both.