The return shots from the posse pattered against the window frame of the fort.
They raised her up, still insensible, and he supported her on one knee, while his wife pattered away for some cold fresh water.
For longer than anyone could remember she had pattered to and fro between oven and wash-house and dairy, and out to chicken-run and garden, grumbling and muttering and scolding, but working unceasingly.