of their number who had
been killed, and were now bewailing their loss in African fashion, with
shrieks and cries which came up sounding mournfully from the valley
below.

"I think we have given the rebels a lesson, and need no longer fear an
attack," observed Mr Ferris.

"We must not make too sure yet," said the overseer. "Had we only
island-born blacks to deal with, the case would be different; but there
are a lot of Coromantees, the most savage of the African people, who are
at the bottom of all this, and they will fight like tiger-cats as long
as life remains in them. They won't be satisfied, if they can have
their will, till they burn us and the house in a heap. They will try it
again, or I am much mistaken."

The events which have just been described occupied but a few short
minutes. The blazing faggots went out without setting fire to the
plantations, of which there was imminent risk, and all was again quiet.
Even the blacks had ceased shrieking and howling. Though the garrison
had hitherto been successful, if they were to hold out for a protracted
siege more water and food must be procured, and again Archie Sandys
volunteered to obtain both. By taking due precautions he was able to
lead a party down to the well, and to get back without being discovered
by the rebels. In another direction, and rather further from the house,
was a plantation of yams. A few basketfuls would afford subsistence to
all the party for a day or more. Of course, rather than starve, they
must kill one of the horses which were tethered at the back of the house
within the lines. The companions of Archie's previous expedition
volunteered to accompany him, but he considered it more prudent to take
only the blacks, who might dig up the roots and carry them in, while he
stood sentinel to warn them to fly should they be discovered.

"You're a brave fellow," said Lieutenant Belt, "and I wish you success,
but I tell you I think your expedition a hazardous one."

"Nothing worth having is to be obtained without trouble," answered
Archie. "I have a good pair of legs, and can jump a fence with any one.
The food must be procured, and I will get it if I can; only, should I
be pursued, cover me with your fire, but take care none of our people
shoot me or any of my companions."

Saying this, Archie set out, followed by his six blacks, carrying
baskets and spades. He had his cutlass by his side, a brace of pistols
in his belt, and his mus