MR. TWIGG RIDES FORWARD TO PREPARE FOR THE DEFENCE OF THE HOUSE--THE
REST OF THE PARTY FOLLOW--ENCOUNTER A PARTY OF BLACKS--PROVE TO BE
FRIENDS--THE OVERSEERS INCREDULITY--PREPARATIONS FOR DEFENDING THE
HOUSE--DOUBTS AS TO THE TRUTH OF THE REPORTS--A FRESH ARRIVAL BRINGS
ALARMING NEWS--MR. HAYWARD'S ACCOUNT OF HIS ESCAPE--SCOUTS SENT OUT--ALL
HANDS LABOUR AT THE FORTIFICATIONS--MAJOR MALCOLM AND A PARTY SET OFF
FOR WALTON HALL--THE INSURGENTS APPEAR AND ATTACK THE HOUSE--DRIVEN
BACK--THE SIEGE--PROVISIONS AND WATER BECOME SCARCE--A SORTIE TO OBTAIN
WATER--THE INSURGENTS ATTEMPT TO BURN THE STOCKADES--DRIVEN BACK BY BELT
AND ARCHIE--ANOTHER SORTIE TO DIG YAMS--ARCHIE CAPTURED BY THE REBELS.
Mr Ferris was acting as charioteer to Mrs Twigg, and took the lead of
the carriages.
"What's the matter?" she cried out, as she caught sight of old Martin
galloping up, dreadful surmises, however, entering her mind.
"Oh, Missee Twigg, don't stop, and I tell you as you go along," answered
the old butler, who having seen his master following behind, turned his
horse round.
"Are the children all safe?" was the next question the anxious mother
put.
"Yes, dey all berry well; but Martha tell me if I lub dere lives and
yours to jump on horseback and come and tell you to make haste home.
She say, and I know she speak de truth, dat de black fellows who run
away to de mountains, and many oders, tousands and tousands from all de
estates, hab got hold of firelocks and 'munition, and intend to murder
all de whites in de island, from one end to de oder, and before night
dey come and burn down Bellevue and cut de troats of us all. She say
our only hope am to get aboard ship or make de house so strong dat we
able to drive dem away when day come."
"How did Martha know this?" asked Mrs Twigg anxiously.
"Dat more nor I can tell," answered Martin. "All I know am dat she
speak de truth."
"Then tell your master, and we will drive on as fast as we can," said
Mrs Twigg. "Say Mr Ferris and I are considering what it will be best
to do."
Martin, allowing Mr Twigg to come up with him, gave him the same
account. Mr Twigg received the information with more composure than
his wife had done. "Desert the house I will not," he answered. "We
will fortify it, and defend ourselves like men. It is providential
these two officers arrived with their troopers, as they will be of the
greatest assistance; and if all the boys prove true, we shall have no
difficulty in holding out against any attack, should one be made on us.
Go back, Martin; send at once to find Mr Thompson. Say that I have
reason fully to believe the information Martha has given; beg him to
collect all the white men and trustworthy overseers, with their arms and
ammunition. And also we must not forget our neighbours. Despatch a
messenger--Jericho, Sambo, or any other fellow--to Mr Pemberton, and
advise him either to join us with all his family, or to fortify his
house as we intend doing ours. But stay, Martin. It may be safer, to
prevent mistakes, if I go myself; a gallop, though the sun is hot, won't
kill me. I'll take your horse, and you shall drive the buggy."
The exchange was soon made, and Mr Twigg galloped forward, telling his
wife as he passed what he proposed doing, and quickly dashing by Ellen
and Fanny.
"Don't be alarmed, ladies," he cried out; "but the truth is we expect an
attack from some blacks, who have broken out into rebellion, and we are
going on to see what can be done to give them a warm reception."
"Surely, in that case, Major Malcolm, we ought not to detain you, as you
will wish to assist in preparing for the defence of the house--for I
conclude that is what Mr Twigg means," said Fanny in a calm tone.
"But we cannot leave you unprotected, Miss Pemberton," answered Major
Malcolm. "Should the negroes really have risen, you might encounter
some on the road, who would, seeing you alone, try to make you prisoners
for the sake of holding you as hostages. I positively cannot leave
you."
"Then we will gallop on together," said Miss Pemberton. "Miss Ferris's
horse and mine are firm-footed, and I am sure that she will be ready to
do as I propose."
She turned round to Ellen, who was perfectly willing to go on, and
pressing their horses with their whips in a way which astonished the
animals, they galloped forward. The road was dry and dusty, and in some
places, where unsheltered by the trees, the sun beat down with intense
heat; but in their anxiety they cared not for the inconvenience. On
looking back they saw Mr Ferris and the other carriages coming along at
almost as fast a rate as they were going. Gradually they were
distancing them. Ellen was unwilling to leave her father behind.
"I am afraid that they are pursued by the blacks," she exclaimed. "Oh,
should they be overtaken!"
"In that case Mr Ferris would far rather that you should escape," urged
the lieutenant. "Let me entreat you not to stop; supposing the rebels
are pursuing us, we could do nothing."
Still Ellen checked her horse till Mr Ferris again came in sight, when
she heard him shouting, "Go on! go on!" and at the same time making
signals with his whip as he lashed his horse. Poor Mrs Twigg was
holding on to the carriage, expecting every moment to be thrown out; but
Mr Ferris, an experienced driver, kept a tight hand on the rein. Old
Martin came dashing after him, standing up lashing his horse, and
shrieking out at the top of his voice, "On! on! old nagger; no tumble
down on oo knees!" while still farther off Jack Pemberton, Archie, and
the other horsemen were seen acting as a rearguard, they, even if so
inclined, not considering it respectful to pass the carriages. Ellen,
on hearing her father's shouts, again applied her whip to her horse's
flanks and galloped forward, much to the lieutenant's satisfaction. The
major and Fanny could only dimly be seen amid the cloud of dust in the
road, here darkened by overhanging trees.
"We cannot be very far, I trust, from Bellevue," said Ellen; "my horse
appears to be flagging."
"The animal is but little accustomed to move at this rate with any one
on its back. Be ready to check it should it stumble," answered the
lieutenant; "but with your light weight there is very little chance of
that. We have, I believe, but two miles to go, and we shall soon cover
that ground. Don't spare the whip, Miss Ferris; you must think of your
own safety more than the feelings of your steed."
Following Lieutenant Belt's advice, Ellen made her horse spring forward,
and they at length again overtook Major Malcolm and Fanny. Just then a
party of blacks were seen ahead, coming along the road towards them.
Fanny was about to check her horse, fearing that they had evil
intentions.
"If they are rebels we must dash by them--it is our best chance of
escape," cried the major, drawing his sword. "I will defend you with my
life, Miss Pemberton. Only keep up your courage and ride straight
forward; they'll not dare to come within arm's length of us."
Lieutenant Belt imitated the major's example, and said something of the
same tenour to Ellen.
"But my father--they will attack him and Mrs Twigg!" she exclaimed.
"He has pistols in the carriage, and a shot or two will soon send the
black fellows to the right-about," answered the major. They galloped
forward, and their anxiety was quickly relieved on discovering that the
blacks were headed by one of the book-keepers, who had been met by Mr
Twigg and despatched along the road to render any assistance which might
be required.
"All's safe at the house, sir, and it's my belief that the blacks on the
estate will prove loyal, whatever may be the case elsewhere," observed
the book-keeper.
"Go forward and obey your orders, sir," said the major; "we will ride on
more leisurely to the house."
Fanny drew a deep breath. "I feel inexpressibly relieved," she said,
"though I was sure, Major Malcolm, that you would have protected me; but
I am more anxious about my father and mother and the rest of the family
at Walton. It is more exposed even than Bellevue, and, though perhaps
our own slaves may prove faithful, there are other estates on either
side where the blacks are said to be harshly treated; and they may take
the opportunity of revenging themselves on all the white people within
their reach. I would rather go home at once to share their fate."
"I am very sure, Miss Pemberton, that should your family be in danger,
they would not desire that you should be exposed to it," answered the
major. "You yourself require rest--and, indeed, your steed would not
carry you much further. I trust that the report which has alarmed us
may prove to be without much foundation, and I will get Mr Twigg to
send over at once to Walton and ascertain the state of affairs--or, if I
find that Bellevue is safe, I will ride over myself to offer my
services."
"Oh, thank you, thank you!" exclaimed Fanny; "I shall indeed be
grateful."
Riding somewhat more leisurely than at first, though still keeping up a
smart canter, they soon reached Bellevue, where they found that Mr
Twigg had sent out to collect the book-keepers and drivers, white and
brown, to assemble at the house for its protection. Major Malcolm's
first inquiry was as to his means of defence.
"I have firearms, which I have kept ready in case of any outbreak such
as that of '37, and all the white men on the estate have their
fowling-pieces and pistols," he answered. "We fortunately procured a
couple of casks of powder not long ago."
"Very good; but have you a supply of bullets?" asked the major.
"No--dear me, I am afraid not," said Mr Twigg.
"But you have moulds, surely, for casting them?" continued Major
Malcolm.
"Yes; some are stored with the arms, I believe," was the answer.
"And what about lead?" asked the major. The worthy planter looked
perplexed. "You must surely have some leaden pipes or cisterns, or lead
in some form or other. Pray search in every direction, and I will set
my two fellows to work at once to cast bullets, while we go round and
consider the best means for fortifying the house. It is as well to be
prepared, although I believe that, after all, it will prove a false
alarm."
The ladies were more tired and overcome with the heat than they had
expected while the excitement of riding lasted, and had to retire to
their rooms. Mr Ferris soon arrived with Mrs Twigg, when she and her
husband immediately sent for the black nurse, Martha, that they might
ascertain from her whence she had obtained the alarming intelligence she
had sent them. She would only reply, "I tell you, massa, what is de
truth. I lub de children better than life; but I know when de black
fellows find out dat I tell you, dey kill me. De Obeah man do it. Even
though he not find me, I die--I know it; but if I save you and de
children, I not care."
Nothing else could be elicited from Martha, but she persisted in
declaring that they would find ere long that she had given no false
alarm. Both Mr and Mrs Twigg, indeed, were convinced that she spoke
the truth; and Mr Twigg went on with the preparations for the defence
of the house. In a short time Mr Thompson, who had been at the further
end of the estate, and several book-keepers came in.
"What has happened, Mr Twigg?" he exclaimed. "Sambo brought me a
cock-and-bull story about a number of blacks being in arms, and coming
down to burn and sack the house and murder us all. I don't believe it,
sir. Our people, at all events, are kept in too good order to do
anything of the sort; and I should have heard of any ill-feeling
existing among the slaves in any of the neighbouring estates. I beg
your pardon, sir--but it seems to me ridiculous to suppose that they
would again attempt to rebel; they cannot have forgotten how they were
treated the last time they ventured to rise in arms. Of course,
gentlemen from England and military officers could not be expected to
know anything about the matter, and they are therefore ready to believe
the absurd reports."
"But I also, Mr Thompson, am inclined to believe that there is more in
it than you suppose," answered the planter, "old Martin is evidently
alarmed--and he is as sensible as he is faithful."
Still the overseer was incredulous. "I'll obey your orders, however,
sir," he said, "and do anything you or the military officers think
necessary to put the house in a state of defence."
"Very well, Mr Thompson; collect all the trustworthy people, and direct
them to bring their arms and ammunition, and as large a stock of
provisions as they have ready," replied Mr Twigg, "and we will follow
out any plan Major Malcolm may suggest. He will, of course, take the
command, and for our own sakes we shall be wise to obey his orders."
The overseer laughed. "Well, sir, we shall take a great deal of trouble
for nothing," he said; "and should the military gentlemen order us to
level the out-buildings, and to cut down the trees surrounding the
house, we shall do more damage than can be easily repaired."
Several of the young men agreed with Mr Thompson, but Archie Sandys and
Jack Pemberton sided with the other gentlemen. Martha remained as firm
as at first in her belief that if they did not make haste and get ready
to defend themselves, they would all be destroyed. The major's first
care had been to see that the arms and ammunition were in a serviceable
state. The former evidently required cleaning; with the powder he was
satisfied. Though no leaden pipes were procurable, as bamboo canes
serve every purpose for which the former are used in other countries, a
leaden cistern and some pigs of lead which had been sent with the
muskets were found, and the three troopers who had accompanied the major
and his companion were set to work to cast bullets and clean up the
arms; while the major, after twice making the circuit of the house,
advised that it should be surrounded in the first place with a
_chevaux-de-frise_ of timber and stout bamboos sharpened at the ends,
and that, if time would allow, inside that a palisade should be erected
with loopholes for musketry and of a height sufficient to protect the
garrison.
"At all events," he observed, "no harm can be done by collecting the
materials for the purpose, and we can then proceed according to the
information we receive."
This plan seemed so sensible that even Mr Thompson did not object to
it, and all the available hands were divided into two parties--some sent
to the nearest cane-brake to cut the canes, and others to fell trees.
Night was approaching, and after the first few loads had been brought
in, Mr Thompson suggested that they should wait till the following
morning. Martha, who was eagerly watching all the proceedings, went to
her master and, with tears in her eyes, entreated that there might be no
delay.
"I know what will happen dis berry night," she said; "if any one shut
his eyes, perhaps no wake in de morning."
As the moon was nearly half full, there would be light. For some hours
Mr Twigg accordingly directed that the people should continue their
work. Most of the slaves seemed to labour willingly; but the drivers
who were superintending them observed that they went lazily about their
work, and did as little as they possibly could. Mr Thompson, on being
told of this, remarked that it was no wonder, as they had been toiling
all day, and it was not his custom to work the slaves after sundown, as
was done on some ill-managed estates. As soon as the logs of wood and
the canes were brought in, Major Malcolm and the lieutenant, with their
men, having provided themselves with axes, threw off their coats and
commenced cutting the logs and canes into proper lengths and showing how
they were to be fixed in the ground. Between the canes which formed the
_chevaux-de-frise_ were planted large masses of prickly-pear, through
which no ill-clad black, nor indeed any human being, could force his
way. It was considered that this would stop the enemy even more
effectually than the palisades. It was no easy task, however, to cut
the sword-like leaves and place the plants in their required positions.
The young Englishmen not otherwise employed offered their assistance, as
did old Martin and the other black servants, in forming both the works,
the latter managing to handle the prickly-pears far more dexterously
without hurting themselves than their masters.
"We shall do no material harm to your lawn, Mrs Twigg," observed Major
Malcolm, "and for your sake I trust that it may not become the scene of
a conflict. By-the-by, Mr Twigg, if there is a serious chance of it we
must barricade the doors and windows, and it will be prudent to have the
materials ready for the purpose. If you have no spare planking, I have
no doubt that one of the out-buildings will supply what we require."
Mr Twigg of course agreed to this, and, lantern in hand, led the way to
a building at a little distance from the house.
"I advise you to have this pulled down at once; but if you are unwilling
to do that, you can give directions to one of the young men, who will
superintend the work should it become necessary," said the major.
Mr Twigg, having sent for Archie Sandys, told him what might be
required, and he, of course, undertook to carry out his orders. Some
time went by. The ladies having rested and partly recovered from their
fatigue, assembled in the supper-room, in which a handsome repast was
spread. Here they were joined by the gentlemen, who, having worked
hard, had good appetites. No one would have supposed as they were
seated round the table that they were apprehensive of the danger
threatening them.
"It seems very ridiculous to be taking all this trouble and expending
our strength on account of a vague report of which really nobody seems
to know the origin," observed Lieutenant Belt to Ellen. "The major of
course thinks there is something in it; but, for my part, I believe we
shall find that we have all been frightened out of our wits for
nothing."
"I wish that I could agree with you," answered Ellen. "There have been
terrible outbreaks before in this island, and rumours have been for some
time going about that the slaves are in a discontented state."
"I had expected, from the way our friends galloped after us this
afternoon, that a body of savage rebels were at their heels," said the
lieutenant, "and I confess that when we reached the house I fancied that
we should have had to stand to our arms, and defend ourselves as best we
could. I was very glad to see our hostess and Mr Ferris and the rest
of the party arrive safely, and was somewhat surprised when no enemy
followed them. We shall find, I suspect, that the foe did not come
because no foe is in existence."
Ellen, however, could not agree with the young lieutenant.
Miss Pemberton's anxieties had been somewhat quieted. Mr Twigg assured
her that he had sent a messenger to warn her father, who would of course
make preparations to defend his house; she might soon therefore expect
an answer saying that they were all safe. The party at length became
more cheerful, and Mr Ferris expressed his belief that they might all
go to sleep without fear of becoming dead men before the morning.
"Belt and I ought to be on our road at an early hour," remarked Major
Malcolm; "but I wish before we go to see your fortifications in a
forward state, and I shall then feel it my duty to ride round to Walton
to render Mr Pemberton any assistance he may require."
Fanny was on the point of asking him to escort her, but a very natural
feeling made her hesitate, and she resolved to remain with her friends.
The conversation had become more lively than at first, and jokes and
laughter were even being indulged in, when the sound of horses' hoofs
was heard coming along the road from the east at a rapid rate. Mr
Twigg hurried to the door, followed by Mr Ferris.
"Who is it?" asked the former.
"Hayward," answered a voice. "Thank Heaven I find you safe! I've had a
narrow escape of my life, and I was afraid that you might be placed in
equal danger; indeed, had it not been for my faithful fellow Tom Yam
here, I should to a certainty have been killed."
"Come up, then, and tell us all about it," exclaimed Mr Twigg, who the
next instant was shaking hands with the stranger, while Martin took
charge of Tom Yam. Mr Twigg introduced the new arrival. Mr Hayward,
sitting down, tossed off a glass or two of Madeira, for he required some
stimulant before he could speak.
"I bring you dreadful news," he said. "I would thankfully not have to
alarm you, ladies, but it may be better to know the worst at once. I
had come over to Stillwater, having providentially left my family at
Kingston, when, as I was resting after my journey, Tom Yam, who had been
sent with a message to Fort Maria to ask Captain Torrens, commanding
there, to come over and dine with me, rushed into my room panting for
breath with the fearful news that the entire garrison and a number of
white people from different places assembled there at dinner had
suddenly been surprised by a whole host of blacks. The villains had
been lying in ambush near at hand, and rushing upon them without
warning, had put nearly every human being of the party to death. Among
the few survivors was a black servant of one of the officers, who had
given him the information. He himself had got near enough to see the
blacks in possession of the fort, some engaged in burning down the
buildings, and others carrying off the arms and ammunition. The boy
told him that the white men were at the supper-table, and that all had
there been butchered without being able to reach their arms or strike a
blow for their defence. He hurried back, and as he came along he heard
the negroes close at his heels, shouting and shrieking over their
victory, and threatening to attack Stillwater House. Scarcely had he
uttered the words than the cries of the barbarians reached my ears. Not
a moment was to be lost; I hastily threw on my clothes and followed Tom,
who entreated me to run for the stable, where we could get our horses
and gallop off as the best prospect of saving our lives, for if we
attempted to hide ourselves the rebels were nearly sure to find us--
many, indeed, of my own slaves having, as Tom assured me, joined them.
So close were they by this time that I was afraid they would see us as
we made our way to the stable. We reached it just as they broke into
the grounds on the opposite side. Some time was lost in saddling the
horses; as I led mine out, I saw several black faces peering out of the
windows above us. I threw myself on the animal's back, Tom having
mounted his horse inside the stable; a shower of bullets, happily ill
aimed, came whizzing about our ears--two, indeed, passed through my
jacket. Away I galloped, followed by Tom; though several more shots
were fired at us, we escaped them all. Fortunately, there were no other
horses in the stable or we should probably have been followed. As I
looked over my shoulder I saw smoke ascending from the roof of the
house, and ere I had got much further flames burst out from every part.
At first I proposed pushing for Kingston, but Tom expressed his belief
that we should find bands of rebels on the road, and I determined
therefore to come on in this direction, and to warn any friends on the
way. How our horses have done so much seems surprising, for you may be
sure we took but a short time to rest. We passed on the way, I should
say, several parties of blacks, but as they had no firearms, we dashed
by them uninjured, although some made an attempt to stop us."
"Did you say, sir, that all the officers and men were massacred at Fort
Maria?" asked Major Malcolm, in an agitated tone.
"I have too little doubt about it, sir," answered Mr Hayward. "I can
trust Tom's word, and Captain Torrens's servant assured him that he saw
his master and Ensign Duck murdered with the other white gentlemen."
"Only two days ago we dined with him, little thinking what was soon to
occur!" said the major, with a sigh. "Poor fellow! poor fellow! how
full of life and spirits he seemed! Such may be the fate of any one of
us!"
Miss Pemberton looked sad as he spoke.
"You are now convinced, Mr Thompson, that there is something in the
report we heard," observed Mr Ferris to the overseer, "and that we were
not foolishly alarmed?"
"How soon do you think that the band of rebel blacks can reach Bellevue,
should they come in this direction?" asked the major of Mr Hayward.
"They might be here in a day--and my belief is that there are several
bands much nearer at hand, and that it would be wise to prepare for an
attack without a moment's delay," answered Mr Hayward.
"Preparations have already been commenced," observed the major; "but I
would urge our friend here to follow your advice."
"I am glad to hear it," replied Mr Hayward. "From the way the rebels
made their attack on the fort, and the rapidity and order with which
they retreated, it is evident that they are no contemptible foes,
besides which, they have obtained a considerable store of arms. I will
remain to assist you, for my horses could not proceed a mile further;
and I should wish indeed, before I go on, to ascertain the state of the
country to the westward. I fear from the report Tom gave that the
slaves in the whole island are in a state of revolt."
"In that case our only wise course will be to barricade the house and
throw up such other fortifications as time will allow," said Major
Malcolm. "Mr Twigg, will you give the order to your people to bring in
sufficient planking to close up all doors and windows, and we will then
form a stockade round the house. Rouse up all the hands you can muster;
they must work during the night, by the light of lanterns or torches or
fires, if necessary. I will answer for your safety if the work is
completed in time."
The worthy planter showed that he was a man of spirit--he immediately
issued the necessary orders, and the overseer, now convinced that the
report of the insurrection was founded on truth, ably seconded him.
Coats were thrown aside, and the carpenter's tools in the house being
collected, each person took such as he could best use, and, as soon as
the wood was brought in, began sawing and nailing away with might and
main. Others went on with the _chevaux-de-frise_, while a third party
dug a trench and began erecting a palisade between it and the house.
Major Malcolm and Lieutenant Belt were everywhere, showing the people
how to put up the palisade and lending a hand to the work. Archie
Sandys was especially active; the planter and Mr Ferris laboured away
with hammer and nails in barricading the windows; while the three
troopers who had accompanied the officers, having cast a sufficient
store of bullets, came out and gave their valuable assistance. Major
Malcolm was too good a soldier to forget the importance of having timely
notice of the approach of a foe, and had directed the overseer to select
four trustworthy negroes, who were sent out to do duty as scouts, with
orders to make their way back the moment they discovered the enemy.
"Can you entirely trust those fellows?" asked the major, after the men
had been despatched.
"As to that, sir, I can't be answerable for their not running away,
though I believe that they'll not willingly join the rebels," answered
the overseer.
"Then we must not depend implicitly on them," said the major. "I must
ask some of the young gentlemen to undertake the duty; Lieutenant Belt
and one of my men will accompany them."
Archie Sandys, on hearing this, immediately volunteered, as did two
other of the book-keepers. The party made their way for some distance
in the direction it was expected that the rebels would appear; and,
leaving Archie in a sheltered spot, the lieutenant conducted the others
round, posting first one and then the other in positions in which they
could command a view of the different approaches, so that on whatever
side the enemy might come, time would be given to the garrison to
prepare for their reception. All the men who had been collected
continued diligently engaged in erecting the fortifications, and were
thus employed when daylight returned. The works were by this time in a
tolerably forward state, and were of a character well calculated to
resist an attack by an undisciplined and ill-armed force, though they
would have been useless against artillery or well-trained troops. No
one proposed stopping for breakfast, for all saw the importance of
getting the works completed before the arrival of the foe. The house
standing high, and a good view over the country round being obtained
from it, there was no necessity to keep the sentries at their posts
during the daytime. The lieutenant accordingly went out to call them
in. They had seen nothing of the black scouts--as the overseer had
thought probable, they had run away and hidden themselves. They,
however, came back during the morning, each one bringing the same
account--"All right, massa, no enemy come yet."
"You hid yourselves, you rascals," said Mr Twigg.
"Ki Massa Twigg, de ossifer tell hide selves," answered one of the
scouts.
"But you went to sleep, Quasho, into the bargain, I suspect," observed
the planter.
"If ever shut eyes, hear all de same, massa," replied Quasho, with
perfect coolness.
It was not a time to inflict punishment if it could be avoided, and the
negroes were ordered to assist at the work going forward.
It was past noon before the fortifications were completed. They were in
such a form that the enemy attacking any portion would be exposed either
to a flanking or a cross fire. The major surveyed them with evident
satisfaction.
"Provided our ammunition does not run short, we shall be able to hold
out for a siege of any length against such enemies as are likely to
attack us," he observed to Mr Twigg; "although, as the rebels have not
appeared, I think it possible they may not come at all."
"I trust not, major; but we shall be deeply indebted to you
notwithstanding," answered the planter. "Now, after your labours, come
in and have some breakfast."
The major willingly accepted the invitation, and found to his
satisfaction the ladies ready to receive him. Miss Pemberton gave him a
grateful smile, but he thought she still looked anxious. She confessed
that she was so on account of her family. Would she wish to send
assistance to them? he asked.
"Indeed, I would," she answered; "for, though our house can be more
easily fortified and defended than this can, there are fewer trustworthy
people to form its garrison."
"Would you wish me to go, Miss Pemberton?" asked the major. "I would,"
he added, speaking very low, "run every risk for your sake. I, of
course, would not offer to quit Bellevue unless I considered that it
already possessed a sufficiently strong garrison; indeed, I think it
probable that it will not be attacked, or if it is, that the insurgents
will very quickly retire when they see the preparations we have made for
their reception."
"Oh, it will indeed greatly relieve my mind if assistance could be
carried to Walton!" exclaimed Fanny.
"Then I will go, and will leave Belt here with two of our men. Your
brother will, I conclude, wish to accompany me," said the major.
"So will I," said Mr Hayward, "with my man Tom. We shall not too
greatly weaken the garrison of this place, and we may render essential
assistance to the Pembertons."
Mr Twigg, though he possibly might rather have kept his friends, could
not object to this proposal, and Major Malcolm immediately desired that
the horses might be got ready. Several white men and mulattoes had come
in from two small plantations in the neighbourhood on hearing of the
rebellion, knowing that it would be hopeless to attempt the defence of
their homes; and three of these, who were well mounted and armed,
volunteered to accompany Major Malcolm and Mr Hayward. Fanny thanked
the major more by her looks than in words, as she bade him farewell.
The party, throwing themselves into their saddles, rode off, setting the
heat at defiance. They had been gone scarcely half an hour when Archie
Sandys, who was doing duty as sentry, and had posted himself on a height
from whence he could command a view of most of the approaches to the
house on the and south, came hurrying in with the information that he
had seen a large body of blacks moving along from the latter direction.
"They looked exactly like a swarm of ants as they came over the hill,"
he observed. "Hark! you can already hear the shrill notes of their
horns."
"Then to arms, my friends!" cried the lieutenant. "We must man our
lines, but don't let a shot be fired till I give the order."
All arrangements had previously been made; each gentleman having a
certain number of men placed under him, while the two orderlies were to
act as the lieutenant's aides-de-camp. To each party was assigned the
defence of a certain portion of the lines, so that the moment the order
was issued the entire garrison knew where they were to go.
Notwithstanding the absence of Major Malcolm and those who had
accompanied him, they felt secure in their numbers and fortifications.
The shouts and shrieks of the rebels and the sound of their horns were
now distinctly heard as they hurried on to attack the house, fully
expecting to surround it, and in a few minutes to massacre the
inhabitants, as they had done those of several other pens they had
already attacked, little dreaming of finding it so strongly garrisoned
and fortified.
"Keep under cover, my men," cried the lieutenant, as the enemy were seen
marching from the wood and running forward without order into the open;
"our fire will stagger them, and probably make them scamper off, if we
reserve it till they come sufficiently near for each man to take a good
aim. Don't throw a bullet away. Aim low, remember--aim low!"
As the rebel blacks advanced, they discovered that there was something
unusual about the house, and at length began to suspect that it was
fortified in a way to which they were unaccustomed. They accordingly
halted, and were seen talking eagerly to each other, while they held
their muskets pointing towards the building.
Their leader, whom Archie recognised as the ugly negro he had seen at
the Jumby dance, went among them vociferating loudly, and endeavouring
to induce them to advance. Thus encouraged, they rushed forward, firing
their muskets; many of them, who had put the butts against their eyes,
being knocked over by the recoil as they did so. Some fired at one
moment, some at another, with the greatest possible irregularity, many
of the bullets flying over the house, others striking the roof.
"Let them expend their ammunition as fast as they like in that style,"
cried the lieutenant, laughing; "they will not do us much harm. It is
not worth replying to such a salute."
The lieutenant's remarks greatly encouraged his men, who waited
patiently to fire in return.
"Now give it them, my lads!" he at length cried out, when the blacks had
got within fifty yards of the palisade. The order was obeyed, and as
the smoke cleared away the rebels were seen running off at full speed,
leaving five of their number on the field; and from the way others
retreated, leaning on their companions, it was evident that several more
were wounded. They, however, halted immediately they got beyond
gunshot, having no intention, apparently, of retreating altogether.
They were now seen assembled as before, a vast amount of talking taking
place among them, while their leaders rushed hither and thither urging
them to renew the attack. But this it at first seemed they were little
inclined to do; most of them, indeed, sat down on the ground as if
determined not to advance.
"I believe if we were to sally out and charge them we might put them all
to flight," exclaimed Archie Sandys, who, his Highland blood being up,
was full of fight.
"Don't attempt anything of the sort," said Lieutenant Belt, who showed
that he possessed the qualities so important for a soldier of coolness
as well as of courage. "We might drive those immediately in our front
before us, but we should have their companions on our flanks and be to a
certainty cut off, or have to fight our way back again. As long as they
keep where they are they can do us no harm."
It was especially trying to the garrison to see their enemies sitting
down quietly just out of the reach of their bullets, without permission
to attack them. The day was waning, and in all probability the blacks
would make another attack at night, when they would have a better chance
of getting near without being discovered. All the time their cries and
shrieks, and the blowing of their horns, were heard from all sides; then
came the sound of other horns in the distance, which were answered with
loud blasts from the rebels surrounding the house.
"I am afraid that the rascals have been reinforced," observed Mr Twigg.
"As they increase in numbers they will grow bolder, and we shall have
harder work to drive them off."
"Don't be anxious about that," answered the lieutenant; "as long as our
men prove true we shall have no difficulty in keeping them at bay, and
we may hope in time that troops will be sent to assist us, as well as
others who may be attacked. I hope that many planters will have wisely
taken the precautions you have done, and fortified their houses."
"My belief is that Mr Pemberton will have done so," answered Mr
Ferris; "if not, I fear that Major Malcolm will be unable to render him
much assistance."
Weary from hard work as all the garrison were, they could not venture to
take any rest, except such as they could obtain by sitting with their
backs to the palisades or the wall of the house, with their muskets by
their sides, ready for instant service. Lieutenant Belt, who felt the
responsibility resting on his shoulders, divided the other gentlemen
into two watches, so that one party might be continually going round to
see that the sentries were on the alert. As it was fully expected that
the rebels would make a sudden attack during the dark hours of night, he
himself felt that he must dispense with sleep.
"I quite envy you," said Archie, who accompanied him. "I wish that I
had been a soldier; this work just suits me."
"You might soon get tired of it. If it were to become the sole
occupation of your life, you would begin to sigh for rest and long for a
quiet life, I can tell you," was the answer.
None of the men appeared inclined to sleep at their posts, for they all
well knew that their lives depended on their vigilance.
After some time had elapsed, several dusky forms could be seen creeping
up towards the house, as if to ascertain what the garrison were about.
"Keep silence," whispered the lieutenant to the men, as he went his
rounds; "when they get near enough we will show them that we are wide
awake. The blacks can then be picked off by any good marksmen among
you." As he spoke, the lieutenant's voice may have been heard, or the
negroes may have observed the heads of the sentries above the palisades,
for they suddenly disappeared under cover.
Towards the morning the darkness increased, and the garrison redoubled
their vigilance, every moment expecting an attack, for the rebels might
have got close up to the house without being discovered.
The ladies, meantime, with the nurses and children, had been placed in
one of the lower rooms, into which it was believed no shot could
penetrate. Mr Ferris had urged them, in case of an attack, to lie
down, so that, should any balls make their way through the planking,
they might pass over their heads.
"But surely we can help in some way or other," exclaimed Fanny. "We
might load the muskets, even if we do not fire them; and if any of our
defenders are wounded, we will come out and take their places with the
rest."
"I will do my best, but I do not feel that I could try to kill the poor
blacks," answered Ellen.
"They deserve to be killed," exclaimed Miss Pemberton, "for daring to
rebel against their masters." She spoke as a planter's daughter.
"Perhaps we might better employ ourselves in attending to any of our
defenders who are unfortunately wounded," observed Mrs Twigg, who knew
Ellen's sentiments, and did not wish to enter into any discussion on the
subject.
"I trust that, now they have seen the preparations made for their
reception, the rebels will not attempt to attack the house," said Mr
Ferris. "All I beg you to do is to remain quiet, and to keep up your
spirits. Perhaps in the morning we shall find the blacks have
retreated, and gone off to attack some more defenceless houses.
However, if any of the people are wounded, we will place them under your
care. In the mean time, let me entreat you to lie down and get some
rest."
Somewhat reassured by his remarks, the ladies followed his advice; and,
except the sentries and the officers on guard, the greater number of the
inmates of the house might have been found fast asleep. Not a sound was
heard throughout the building, nor was a light shown which might attract
the notice of the rebels. Occasionally their voices and the shrill
blasts of their horns could be heard rising out of the valley, but even
the keenest pair of eyes among the garrison failed to detect a single
object moving in any direction.
Day at length broke, and it was hoped that the enemy might have
disappeared; but as the light increased, the blacks were seen amid the
openings of the trees, collected in still greater numbers than on the
previous evening, while in the far distance parties were observed moving
across the country, some approaching the house, others going in the
direction of Walton.
"I fear that the major and his companions have had some difficulty in
reaching Mr Pemberton's house," observed Lieutenant Belt to Archie
Sandys. "If he could not get in, he will have gone on to Montego, or
some place to the westward where he might hope to obtain troops to
relieve us."
"But suppose that he has encountered some such large gang of armed
blacks as those we see out yonder; he and his companions must have been
shot down, for what could so small a party do against a whole host of
enemies?" answered Archie.
"That depends upon how his followers behave. If they prove staunch and
obey his orders, they may put any number of armed undisciplined blacks
to fight," said the lieutenant. "Still I own that I shall be glad to
have tidings of him. What the fellows round this house intend doing, I
cannot make out; but I conclude that they prefer fighting in daylight
rather than in the dark, and that we must expect to be attacked before
long. In the mean time, I shall be glad to have some breakfast and a
few minutes' sleep. Do you take my place, and let me be called if you
detect the slightest movement among the blacks." Saying this, the
lieutenant went into the house, through the only door which had been
left open. Preparations had also been made for barricading that, should
it become necessary.
The house, it must be understood, was to form the citadel, should the
outer defences be forced or should there be a prospect of their being
so. With this object in view, loopholes had been formed in all the
doors and windows, from whence a warm fire could be poured down upon the
assailants. Still the rebels did not venture to approach nearer.
Archie and the others began heartily to wish that the blacks would
attack them, not doubting for a moment what would be the result. Hour
after hour went by, but no movement was perceived. Still it could
scarcely be hoped that the rebels had given up all intention of
assaulting the house.
A stock of provisions had been collected, but there were many mouths to
consume them, and no one had expected that the siege would last beyond a
day or two, as all supposed that, after being defeated in the first
attack, the blacks would take to flight. The consumption of water was
also considerable, and it was found that nearly all had been used up.
The well which supplied it was at some little distance from the house.
Water, however, must be obtained at all hazards. Archie undertook to
lead a party with buckets to get what was wanted: it would be more easy
to do that at night than in the daytime. But thirst can be ill endured
in that burning climate; Archie therefore cried out for a dozen
volunteers, six to carry the buckets, and six, fully armed, to defend
them should they be attacked. The well was little more than a hundred
yards off, while the nearest blacks who could be seen were at the
distance of four hundred yards off at least, but others might be
concealed nearer at hand.
Six white men, book-keepers and others, volunteered to accompany Archie;
the remainder, who were to carry the buckets, were blacks. They crept
along till they got directly opposite the path which led to the well;
headed by Archie, they at once rushed down towards it. The rebels at
first made no movement, apparently not understanding what they were
about; then some of those in front began to retreat, thinking that they
were to be attacked, and evidently not prepared for this. They soon,
however, discovered the object of the garrison; it showed them also,
what they might not before have been aware of, that there was a scanty
supply of water in the house. Summoned by their leaders, they began to
advance, and as they did so fired at Archie and his companions. In the
mean time, the bucket-bearers had obtained the water, and were
retreating up the hill.
"Don't fire," cried Archie, "till their bullets come whizzing about our
ears. Steady now!" And his men retreated towards the house, looking
over their shoulders to see how far off the enemy still were. As soon
as the slaves had carried the water safely inside, the armed men turned
round and fired a volley which stopped the advance of the rebels. Then,
making a rush, Archie and his companions leaped over the palisades, the
whole garrison at the same moment opening fire on the advancing enemy,
who, having failed in their object of cutting off the watering party,
took to their heels.
None of the rebel blacks were killed, though some apparently were hit,
but not one of the garrison was hurt. This was the chief event of the
day. Enough water to last them four and twenty hours at least was
obtained, and Archie proposed getting some more at night, when it could
be done with less risk. Food, however, began to grow scarce; the fresh
meat and fowls had become uneatable, and much anxiety was felt as to the
means of obtaining more provisions. The kitchen garden and the yam
grounds, being at the foot of the hill, were in possession of the
rebels. Of course the garrison was put on an allowance both of food and
water, the ladies setting the example to the rest. They now began to
look out anxiously for relief. The news of the insurrection must have
reached Kingston and the other large towns where soldiers were
quartered; and of course troops, with the militia and even the maroons,
who it was hoped would prove loyal, would at once be despatched to
disperse the rebels. Should Major Malcolm not have reached Walton, but
have made his way to Montego, he would there, it was supposed, take
command of some of the garrison of the fort and the militia, who
mustered in pretty strong numbers, and would quickly return.
The day was drawing towards its close. The blacks had made no movement,
nor could any friends be seen approaching from the west. The planter
and his overseer and Archie made frequent visits to the roof of the
house, whence they could obtain the most extensive view, and Archie, who
was the last to go up, watched the sun sinking into the west and
darkness come on without having any satisfactory intelligence to give on
his return, he felt more out of spirits than he had ever before done in
his life. Not on his own account, however, for he wished that the
blacks would attack the house, as he was ready to fight to the death,
and felt confident that they would be driven off. He was sincerely
attached to Mr Twigg's family, and he thought of the two young ladies--
especially of Ellen, to whom he had lost his heart--and dreaded the
hardships to which they all might be exposed; indeed, he could not
conceal from himself that they might be in still more terrible danger
than at present. Lieutenant Belt, who had wisely taken some hours'
sleep, rose refreshed and ready for the work before him. He forthwith
went round among the men, urging them to be on the alert, and telling
them that he fully believed the blacks would make an attack before long.
"Don't be daunted by their shrieks and cries, my men," he said. "Depend
upon it, they will not stand before a few well-aimed volleys from your
muskets. Don't fire till you get them well in view, and then aim at
their bodies. `Let every bullet have its billet,' and I will answer for
it we shall beat them off."