in de morning."

As the moon was nearly half full, there would be light. For some hours
Mr Twigg accordingly directed that the people should continue their
work. Most of the slaves seemed to labour willingly; but the drivers
who were superintending them observed that they went lazily about their
work, and did as little as they possibly could. Mr Thompson, on being
told of this, remarked that it was no wonder, as they had been toiling
all day, and it was not his custom to work the slaves after sundown, as
was done on some ill-managed estates. As soon as the logs of wood and
the canes were brought in, Major Malcolm and the lieutenant, with their
men, having provided themselves with axes, threw off their coats and
commenced cutting the logs and canes into proper lengths and showing how
they were to be fixed in the ground. Between the canes which formed the
_chevaux-de-frise_ were planted large masses of prickly-pear, through
which no ill-clad black, nor indeed any human being, could force his
way. It was considered that this would stop the enemy even more
effectually than the palisades. It was no easy task, however, to cut
the sword-like leaves and place the plants in their required positions.
The young Englishmen not otherwise employed offered their assistance, as
did old Martin and the other black servants, in forming both the works,
the latter managing to handle the prickly-pears far more dexterously
without hurting themselves than their masters.

"We shall do no material harm to your lawn, Mrs Twigg," observed Major
Malcolm, "and for your sake I trust that it may not become the scene of
a conflict. By-the-by, Mr Twigg, if there is a serious chance of it we
must barricade the doors and windows, and it will be prudent to have the
materials ready for the purpose. If you have no spare planking, I have
no doubt that one of the out-buildings will supply what we require."

Mr Twigg of course agreed to this, and, lantern in hand, led the way to
a building at a little distance from the house.

"I advise you to have this pulled down at once; but if you are unwilling
to do that, you can give directions to one of the young men, who will
superintend the work should it become necessary," said the major.

Mr Twigg, having sent for Archie Sandys, told him what might be
required, and he, of course, undertook to carry out his orders. Some
time went by. The ladies having rested and partly recovered from their
fatigue, asse