Several gentlemen present had been engaged in raising men; and, I was told, there were already upwards of two thousand troops in town, though few of them were sufficiently disciplined to meet the enemy. Other Patriot leaders were scouring the country round to obtain recruits, and these, in small parties, were coming in during the night.
In spite of the serious aspect of affairs, the people at this ball danced as much as ever. The card-tables were also filled, but the players stopped very frequently, forgetting the game to discuss matters of importance. I understood that there were men on the watch at the doors, to give notice should any foes to the Liberal party make their appearance.
“I found, on our return home, that my father was pretty well satisfied with the enthusiasm exhibited by the people generally.
“Bloodshed I fear there must be, for the Spaniards fancy that they can overthrow liberty with a few blows, and are determined to stamp it out; but they are mistaken,” he observed.
From dawn the next morning, till nightfall, the new levies were undergoing drill in the great square. I saw Juan at the head of his men, and Captain Lopez drilling them.
“Don’t you think you can give my friend Juan a helping hand?” I said to Mr Laffan, who had accompanied me.
“Faith, it’s not impossible!” he exclaimed, his eye brightening. “If he asks me, I’ll try to brush up my knowledge of such matters.”
I told Juan what the dominie had said, when he at once came forward and begged that he would take charge of a part of his men.
“Is it the cavalry or the infantry?” asked Mr Laffan.
“The cavalry are the most important,” answered Juan. “Here is a spare horse at your service.”