dark, however, the tents were struck and
the troops being paraded without sound of bugle, moved silently forward.
Among them were the seamen and marines landed from the _Empress_ and
_Orion_. Jack and Terence marched with their men, who dragged along
their gun, which from the careful way they handled it, they evidently
regarded with the greatest affection.

After marching for a couple of hours, and crossing a river by a ford,
they approached the enemy's position, into the rear of which it was
necessary to get without being discovered. So perfect was the
discipline of the troops that not a sound was uttered as they moved
along, and the Maoris--not dreaming that they were in the
neighbourhood--were heard calling out as usual to evince their
alertness--

"I see you, ye dogs, come on and fight! come on!"

A low chuckle from the seamen was the only reply. It was not the
intention of the general to attack this position, which would, by its
supplies being cut off, become untenable when turned, and the column,
therefore, marched on to capture a large Maori village in which were
considerable stores, the whole neighbourhood being also under
cultivation. The advance guard consisted of a body of forest rangers, a
colonial cavalry corps. They were followed by the seamen, who, lightly
clad, managed to keep up with them. For several miles they marched
along a path with high ferns on either side, the country beyond being
completely shut out from their view. By pushing the cavalry and light
troops forward it was hoped that the village might be surrounded, and
the inhabitants prevented from making their escape. Whether they would
attempt to defend themselves was doubtful. It was hoped that they would
see the uselessness of doing so, and orders were issued to treat them--
should they yield--with all kindness and consideration. Ascending a
slight elevation, the village, covering a wide extent of ground, could
be seen, not a quarter of a mile away. No lights were visible in any of
the huts, nor were any of the people moving about. Not a dog barked--
not a sound was heard. The rangers were ordered to push forward and
enter the village on one side, while the seamen and marines closed it in
on the other, so that should the inhabitants take to flight they must
fall into the hands of the troops who were coming up over the ridge. As
the seamen were advancing, not supposing that they were even discovered,
suddenly a line of fire o