unless they had some larger party somewhere near.”
John conferred with Muro, and he seemed to be puzzled at the new situation.
“We must fight these fellows, if they discover us, and overwhelm them. They must be scattered to the wind. It is our only alternative. Get the guns and ammunition ready, and give them volley after volley if they attempt to attack us in any way.” John was determined now.
Despite their efforts at concealment, the Brabos discovered the wagon, and without waiting for argument commenced the fight with bows and arrows.
“Now let them have it.”
The first volley was a fearful one in its effect. They halted in the rush, and turned to the east.
“Out, boys, and after them; take the extra guns, and follow them up.” With a shout the boys ran forward, ahead of Blakely and John, but Muro was, nevertheless, in the lead. Two who had been wounded at the fire, fell, and were soon overtaken.
“Don’t go over a half mile,” shouted John. It was useless to follow the fleet warriors. As they passed the fallen Brabos, both were found to be wounded in the legs, and to their surprise, begged to be taken to the wagon.
Muro spoke to them. John interpreted their appeal to mean that they were really at war with the Kurabus, and did not want to be left in the enemy’s country in their disabled condition. This was the fact as Muro gathered it from the captives.
The four lying on the battle line were dead. Muro was told to inform the captives of their peaceful intention, and that they were on a trip through the island on a mission, and not to secure captives. They were further informed that friendship on their part would be advantageous to them, and providing them with food, and a sheltered spot, the fort was replaced, and the wagon proceeded.