a uniform with a large amount of lace about it, "I
have made up my mind to have that fellow's coat for my share." As the
Pastucian officer appeared already to be half-seas over, I thought that
he had spoken in jest, or that I had misunderstood him.

On looking at my watch, I found that it was time for me to go, as the
hour at which I had ordered my horse to be brought had arrived; rising
from my seat, and going towards the window, I saw my servant leading my
horse backwards and forwards.

I was on the point of moving towards the door, hoping to leave the room
without being questioned, when I saw Captain Pinson start up; and
turning to the other Patriot officers, he exclaimed, "Gentlemen, we are
betrayed--treachery is intended--fly for your lives!" As he said this
he drew his sword, when several of the Pastucian officers set upon him.
By a natural impulse I sprang towards the window, while I drew my sword,
intending to support my companions. Captain Pinson had moved in the
same direction, that he might have greater scope for his weapon. I was
soon convinced that he was not mistaken in his supposition that
treachery was intended, for three of the Patriot officers by this time
lay stretched on the floor, stabbed to the heart! The rest had
endeavoured to rally near Captain Pinson, who called to them to make for
the door and cut their way out. The Pastucians, who were mostly
powerful men, set so fiercely on us, however, that I saw there was but
little hope of this being accomplished, although Captain Pinson had
already killed two of them. Pistols were drawn, and the bullets now
began to fly in all directions. It would be difficult to picture a more
fearful scene. The room was full of smoke; shouts and horrible oaths
arose; while the Pastucians rushed again and again at our little band,
on each occasion unhappily bringing to the ground one or more of our
number.

I was fighting as well as I could by Captain Pinson's side, when he said
to me, "Save yourself if you can--quick!--through the window; all hope
is gone for us." This, I feared, was too true; for just then
overwhelming numbers of Pastucians rushed into the room, armed with
spears and bayonets. Half our number had already fallen dead on the
floor; most of the others were desperately wounded, as was Captain
Pinson. I saw him plunge his sword into the breast of a third
Pastucian, who was making a lunge at me with a spear. This decided me.
Though unwillin