We were sound asleep one night, when, about two hours before day, the snorting of our horses and lowing of our cattle, which were ranging in the woods, suddenly awoke us.
I took my rifle and went to the door to see what beast had caused the hubbub, when I was struck by the glare of light reflected on all the trees before me, as far as I could see through the woods.
My horses were leaping about, snorting loudly, and the cattle ran among them in great confusion.
On going to the back of the house I plainly heard the crackling made by the burning brushwood, and saw the flames coming toward us in a far-extended line.
I ran to the house, told my wife to dress herself and the child as quickly as possible, and take the little money we had, while I managed to catch and saddle two of the best horses.
All this was done in a very short time, for I felt that every moment was precious to us.
We then mounted our horses, and made off from the fire. My wife, who is an excellent rider, kept close to me; and my daughter, who was then a small child, I took in one arm.
When making off, I looked back and saw that the frightful blaze was close upon us, and had already laid hold of the house.
By good luck there was a horn attached to my hunting-clothes, and I blew it, to bring after us, if possible, the remainder of my live-stock, as well as the dogs.
The cattle followed for a while; but before an hour had passed they all ran, as if mad, through the woods, and that was the last we saw of them.