ed 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