“Then we must reserve each bullet for the most daring among them. If we can shoot their leaders, the rest will probably take to flight.”
“But if we fail, and should they force their way in?” asked the planter, whose spirits were sinking as he thought of the fearful danger to which his family were exposed.
“Then, sir, we must endeavour to drive them out again with our cutlasses and bayonets; or, if the worst happens, place ourselves round the ladies and children, and fight to the last,” answered the lieutenant in a confident tone. “Though my sword-arm cannot serve me, I can use a pike or bayonet.”
Mrs Twigg had heard of what had taken place, and began to suspect their desperate condition. She imparted her apprehensions to Ellen and Fanny, though neither of them showed any signs of fear.
“I wish that I could use a pistol or sword,” exclaimed Fanny; “but surely we can do something. We can hurl stones or logs of wood down on the heads of our assailants from the windows or roof.”
“I will help you,” cried Ellen, inspired by her friend’s courage. “Let us get them carried up at once, in case they are wanted. There are paving-stones which can be dug up and broken into fragments, or pieces of the heavy furniture will serve the purpose. We will at once tell Mr Twigg what we are ready to do.”
They hurried into the room where the gentlemen were assembled.
“A brave idea,” cried Lieutenant Belt, looking at the young heroines with admiration; “but others can do the work you propose. You must not be exposed to the risk of appearing on the roof. The enemy’s bullets, as we know from experience, would reach you there. Let me entreat you to remain below. We shall fight with more confidence when we know that you are safe.”
Ellen’s suggestion, however, was carried out, and men were immediately sent to break up the paving-stones in the back part of the house. The blacks, at all events, were not likely to gain an easy victory. Hopes indeed were entertained that they would not make another attack, but those hopes were doomed to be disappointed.
“Here they come!” cried several men stationed at the windows.