up into the sky . Just when we thought the rays of the sun would break over the embankment , a strong gust of wind rushed through the canyon . Instead of sunlight , a storm of clouds blew in , obscuring the light !
The troll began to attack the heroic man , but Thunderboy was quick , and could outmaneuver the beast . I was armed with the bow , and I unloaded my arrow into the troll ' s back . It made an excellent target , as it was turned towards Thunderboy , busily attempting to rip apart his limbs , but although the arrow stuck into the metal , they had no effect upon the beast ' s vitality .
As the fight drew closer to us , Thunderboy paused to throw me the key to our shackles ! I caught it and began to undo the locks of all the workers as quickly as my hands , and gigantic sleeves , would allow !
The pause allowed the beast to seize Thunderboy ! It began to whip him about like a rag doll , then tossed him numerous yards , and well over the embankment , where would could not see how he landed .
The workers began to scramble up the embankment , and the troll followed . I ushered all the workers out of harm ' s way , making sure all were unshackled . The giant was right on my heels as he chased me up the hill ! I could feel the weight of his footfalls behind me !
As I leaped over the grassy mound at the top of the canyon , I could feel the beast ' s fingers wrap around my sleeves , which were dragging behind . I screamed as the Chinese workers rushed forward to pull me free , but they suddenly stopped .
I looked at them . They looked at me . There was no more movement behind me . I rolled over to look .
The rays of the sun cut through the clouds and illuminated the hole in the troll ' s helmet ! The monster had turned to stone with my dress still clasped in his fist ! The Chinese workers rejoiced and we gave each other many generous hugs !
Thunderboy came up to me , bruised and battered , and cut my sleeves free . He took me in his strong arms , his bare chest pressing against my body most firmly . At the moment , I found myself feeling very kindly toward Americans and I gave him a most delicate kiss . I turned away from Thunderboy ' s rather remarkable chest and joined the others in their rejoicing .
Tuesday , July the Thirteenth
Sir Hammerhorn drove our carriage down the streets of San Francisco , through the deepening fog , straight to the doorstep of the demon Ahrimanes . Sir Hammerhorn was quite pleased by all the looks he received , for in our cart was the massive stone giant , the troll , tied up in a rope and dangling precariously over the edge .
Brunhilde and I stood , linked arm and arm , and knocked on the door . The door opened and the light was swallowed up into a dark , inky mist .
" Have you come at last ?" asked the creature inside .
" I present to you ," Brunhilde said with a flourish . " An authentic European troll , turned to stone , and unlike any beast you will ever claim as captive !"
Ahrimanes peered into the street , and his face beamed with excitement .
" Aha !" he cried . " He shall make a fine addition to my upcoming attraction , my Bestiary Abode !"
" Now release my friend from your matrimonial bond !" I stated , firmly .
" And what ' s to stop me from taking you all captive for my collection ?" The demon asked , creepily .
" English ladies and gentlemen ," I said , stepping forward . " Do not allow their women to fall into the hands of demons . It is entirely according to English tradition that Captain Hammerhorn should cause you to come to a merciful death , first ."
Sir Hammerhorn stood behind us , silver bullets at the ready .