| 79 | 80 | 81 | 82 | 83 |
| 1 | 88 | 177 | 265 | 353 |
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then again twice. It was repeated from another quarter. The woods on
either side became full of the sound of people bursting through the
underwood; and a bewildered deer ran out into the open, stood for a
second on three feet, with nose in air, and then plunged again into the
thicket.
Selden still ran, bounding; ever and again an arrow followed him, but
still would miss. It began to appear as if he might escape. Dick had
his bow armed, ready to support him; even Matcham, forgetful of his
interest, took sides at heart for the poor fugitive; and both lads glowed
and trembled in the ardour of their hearts.
He was within fifty yards of them, when an arrow struck him and he fell.
He was up again, indeed, upon the instant; but now he ran staggering,
and, like a blind man, turned aside from his direction.
Dick leaped to his feet and waved to him.
"Here!" he cried. "This way! here is help! Nay, run, fellow--run!"
But just then a second arrow struck Selden in the shoulder, between the
plates of his brigandine, and, piercing through his jack, brought him,
like a stone, to earth.
"
O, the poor heart!" cried Matcham, with clasped hands.
And Dick stood petrified upon the hill, a mark for archery.
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