All the town was already invaded, and the fighting went on from house to house. The Aucas formed in close columns, and, led by Nocobotha, dashed up the eastern steep street that runs to Old Carmen and the citadel. They advanced fearlessly, in spite of the incessant fire from the guns of the fort. Nocobotha, respected by death, and ever in front, brandished his totem, and made his black horse rear.
"Well," Major Bloomfield said, mournfully to Pedrito, "the hour has arrived."
"Do you wish it, major?"
"I insist on it."
"That is enough," the bombero added. "Good-bye, major, till we meet again in another world."
The two men shook hands: it was a final leave-taking, for, unless a miracle occurred, they were about to die. After this farewell, Pedrito collected fifty horsemen, formed them into a close squadron, and between two discharges from the battery, they dashed at full speed upon the ascending Indians. The Redskins opened right and left before this avalanche that rushed down the mountain; and they had scarce recovered from their stupor, ere they perceived the Spanish horsemen in three boats, pulling out to sea with all their might.
Taking advantage of this bold diversion, all the colonists, by Major Bloomfield's directions, shut themselves up in the fort.
Nocobotha made the Aucas a sign to halt, and advanced alone up to the walls of the citadel.
"Major," he shouted in a firm voice, "surrender; you and your men will be allowed to live."
"You are a traitor and a dog," the major, who at once appeared, answered.