They saw that nothing could be
gained by fighting the Indians. They were but a small company in a
strange land, and a thousand miles and more from the sea; their object
was gold, not conquest. Should they go on their way, leaving the
unfriendly chief in the security of his fastness? By so doing would
they be leaving an enemy in their rear? On the other hand, should they
bring him to his knees, and teach him to respect and fear the name of
England? How would their line of conduct operate on the minds of the
natives? The point was a delicate one. Some were for pushing ahead,
reaching their goal, and dealing with the hill village on their return;
others were hot to chastise the stubborn Indian at once, and break the
back of native opposition at a blow. Such was the Spanish method, and
no man could say that the Dons had not gotten wealth enough.

The latter council prevailed, and it was decided to attack the native
stronghold that very night under cover of the darkness. The solitary
cannon was taken out of the largest boat and fitted with slings, so
that the Indian allies might carry it. Arquebuses were diligently
cleaned, and all arms and armour attended to.

The forenoon passed busily enough. During the hot hours the men slept
beneath the trees. An hour before sunset supper was served out, and
whilst the men were eating it, a boat shot round the bend, and a loud
"Halloo!" announced the arrival of Morgan and his companions. This
unexpected addition to the fighting strength was heartily welcomed.

Chapter XXXVI.

THE ATTACK ON THE VILLAGE.

Forty Englishmen, with Indian carriers and scouts, stole out from the
river-side camp under the clear light of the tropical stars. The
villagers on the hills slept in a false security. Spies had hung about
the river all day; but the preparations had no meaning for them, except
that they probably signalized an early departure. They had witnessed
the arrival of the other boat, and had sped to their chieftain with the
news. But the idea of a night attack on their stronghold never
occurred to them. This newest type of white man, they had been told
and really believed, fought with their own kind only. The Indians shut
and barred their great gate, curled themselves up on couch of skins or
reed matting, and fell into the deep sleep of the tired savage.

The friendly scouts had so learned every turn and obstacle in the
upward path from the river that they could hav