ess had been on our side; and there appeared every
probability of our being able to defeat any attempt of the enemy to
enter the building. Those who had got into the stables were so many
withdrawn from the attack; and although under shelter, they could effect
nothing against us. Had the Indians been alone, we might have kept them
at bay, cunning as they were; but there were white men among them, who,
although not eager to expose their own lives, were well able to assist
our enemies by their advice.

Presently our assailants, with the exception of those in the stables and
other out-buildings, retreated. It was but for a short time, however;
soon they appeared on the opposite side of the house, many of them
carrying burning brands, which they threw under the fencing. This being
of combustible materials, soon blazed up; and, sheltered by the
intervening flames and smoke, the enemy opened a hot fire on us. Every
now and then, however, a dark form was seen, and as surely a bullet
searched it out. But the whole of our little garrison was now required
to keep the enemy at bay on this side; and those who had been hidden in
the out-buildings took the opportunity of making their escape. Some of
them, we found, had thrown themselves into the mill, which afforded them
sufficient shelter to fire steadily at our loopholes with less risk of
being hit in return. None of us had hitherto been struck, but no sooner
had the mill been taken possession of than two of the farm hands, who
were less cautious than the experienced hunters, were badly wounded--one
of them mortally, while the other was unable to handle his rifle.

The palisade being now burned to the ground, we were deprived of its
protection, and our assailants could consequently get close up to the
walls. But though our numbers were diminished, we endeavoured, by the
rapidity of our fire, not to let the enemy discover our loss.

The fight had now continued for some hours, but still our foes seemed as
determined as ever to capture the place. They, or perhaps the white
men, had heard a report that Uncle Jeff was the owner of fabulous
wealth, of which they had resolved to make themselves the possessors.
This would account for their obstinate perseverance.

Fresh bands continued to arrive, too; and after a cessation of firing, a
shower of arrows, from enemies concealed behind the rocks, came flying
over the house. Had they been simply arrows, they would not have done
mu