ging to the guard, there were a considerable number
piled in the armory, in readiness for any occasion when they might
be required.

When all that could be useful to them was removed, lights were
applied to the hangings and wooden lattice work; and, before they
retired, they saw the flames take sufficient possession of the
building to ensure its destruction.

Many of the negroes had at first laden themselves with wine, but
this Ned peremptorily refused to allow them to carry away. He knew
that it was of the most supreme necessity that good fellowship, and
amity, should run between the members of the bands; and that, were
wine to be introduced, quarrels might arise which would, in the
end, prove fatal to all. He allowed, however, sufficient to be
taken away to furnish a reasonable share for each man, at the feast
which it was only natural they would wish to hold, in commemoration
of their victory.

Chapter 8: The Forest Fastness.

It was with a feeling of triumph, indeed, that the negroes, after
gaining their own fastness, looked back at the sky, lighted by the
distant conflagration. They had now, for the first time, inflicted
such a lesson upon their oppressors as would make a deep mark. They
felt themselves to be really free; and knew that they, in their
turn, had struck terror into the hearts of the Spaniards.

Retiring to the depths of the forest, great fires were made. Sheep,
fowls, and other articles of provision, which had been brought
back, were killed and prepared. Huge bonfires were lit, and the
party, secure that, for twenty-four hours at least, the Spaniards
could attempt no retributive measures, sat down to enjoy the
banquet.

They had driven with them a few small bullocks, and also some
scores of sheep. These, however, were not destined for the spit.
They were to be placed in the heart of their country; so that,
unless disturbed by the Spaniards, they might prove a source of
future sustenance to them.

There was wild feasting that night, with dances, and songs of
triumph in the negro and native dialects; and Ned and Gerald were
lauded and praised, as the authors of the change which had taken
place in the condition of the fugitives. Even the stern severity of
Ned's act was thoroughly approved; and it was agreed, again, that
anyone refusing to obey the orders of the white chiefs should
forfeit his life.

The blow which the negroes had struck caused intense consternation
throughout Hispa