In spite, however, of their bravery and the terrible
execution of their swords, they were being overpowered by numbers, and
it seemed impossible that a single one of them should escape with his
life.
As, completely exhausted by the terrible and unequal struggle, they
were about giving way to despair, a most welcome and unexpected
diversion was made in their favor. A great cry arose beyond the line
of savages, and they were so suddenly and fiercely attacked in the rear
by an unseen foe that they fled in the utmost terror in all directions.
Not even waiting to learn who had lent them this most timely aid, the
soldiers hastened to regain the fort and seek shelter behind its
ponderous gates.
As they did so, they heard, or thought they heard, from the depths of
the forest, a clear voice crying, "France to the Rescue! France to the
Rescue!" and they marvelled greatly thereat.
CHAPTER XI
RENE'S RETURN
When Rene de Veaux sank down in the bottom of the canoe, completely
exhausted by his labors at the paddle, and by the pain of Chitta's
arrow that quivered in his shoulder, he became almost unconscious, and
only dimly realized that they had escaped from their cruel pursuers.
Then he had a vague knowledge of being lifted from the canoe and borne
away, very gently, he knew nor cared not whither, and then he seemed to
fall asleep. When he again awoke to an interest in his surroundings,
he felt that a soft hand was smoothing his brow, and the air was cooled
by a delicious sweet-scented breeze.
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