Under the shadow of the trees, the dark

Goaded Uhila's soul anew, his blood,

Blazing with conflict, gave him mad-man's strength

And devil's skill. His straining form relaxed,

50

Heavily slipping earthward; ere Malua

Could gain fresh hold upon his fainting foe,

Uhila with a twist had laid him low,

Knee on his breast, lean fingers at his throat

Seizing his life.

Malua's eyes grew dim,

The gentle stars seen faint thro' hanging leaves

Wavered uncertainly; his brain seemed black,

Confused with horrid death, the dewy moss

He lay on failed beneath him. Suddenly

Hanging upon the brittle rim of death,

His outstretched hand, gripping the scattered leaves,

Closed on a sharp stone, instinct more than brain

Showed him the way; he raised his weapon, struck

And struck and struck again.

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