"I'm going to fight! And you must do the same!" replied Dan, with energy, as he grasped one of the fowling-pieces that lay upon the bunk.
"Gwine to fight!" cried Cyd, opening his eyes with astonishment. "Gwine to kill de dogs and kill de men?"
"That's what I mean. I will shoot man or dog that attempts to touch me."
"Wha—wha—wha—" stammered Cyd, as he always did when excited; but the idea was too big for him just then, and he broke down altogether.
"That's a settled point, and you must learn to use a gun."
"Woo—woo—woo—would you shoot Massa Kun'l, if he come for to take you?" demanded Cyd.
"I would, or any other man. I belong to myself now, and I will fight for my own freedom to the last."
"I dunno 'bout dat, Dan," mused Cyd. "Hossifus! Shoot Massa Kun'l! Dunno 'bout dat."
"Turn in, Cyd, and go to sleep. You may have the first chance."
The two boys drew lots for the choice of berths, and Dan obtained the after one. Cyd was soon snoring in one of the forward bunks, while Dan took his place upon deck to guard against the approach of man or beast that might threaten their newly-acquired freedom.