"Back men for your lives, there's nothing friendly there,"
exclaimed the Virginian the moment that his glance had
taken in the scene, "out with the arms, and divide the
dry ammunition. Collins, you are a smart fellow, do you
and Green set to work and light a fire, but out of sight,
and dry the muskets as fast as you can. There are twelve
pounds in each of the five remaining cartouch boxes,
these will do for a spell. Jackson, Philips, tree
yourselves, while Cass lies flat in the stern, and keeps
a good look out on the devils, without exposing himself.
Now, my lads, do all this very quietly, and as if you
didn't think there was danger at hand. If they see any
signs of fear, they will pitch it into you directly. As
it is, they are only waiting to settle themselves, and
do it at their leisure."
"Pity they don't make a general of you, corporal," remarked
Collins, as he proceeded quietly with Green to the execution
of the duty assigned to them. "I guess Washington himself
couldn't better command a little army. Is your battle order
finished, general?"
"None of your nonsense, master Collins, this is no time
for jesting.
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