only do in small quantities at a time, using
various shops for the purpose; returning each time, with her
parcel, to the hut.

The suspicion of the Spaniards had, however, been aroused; and
orders had been given to watch her closely. The consequence was
that, after purchasing a few articles, she was followed; and a band
of soldiers surrounded the hut, after she had entered. The fugitive
was there found concealed, and he and the old woman were at once
fastened in the hut. This was then set alight, and they were burned
to death, upon the spot.

When the news reached the mountains, Ned at once determined upon a
reprisal. The negroes and natives were alike ready to follow him,
and the next night the whole party, a hundred and fifty strong,
marched down from the forest. The object of their attack was a
handsome palace, belonging to the military governor of the island,
situated at a short distance from the town.

Passing through the cultivated country, noiselessly and without
detection, they reached the mansion and surrounded it. There were,
here, a guard of some thirty soldiers, and sentries were placed at
the entrance.

At the signal, given by the blowing of a conch shell, the attack
commenced on all sides. The sentries were at once shot down, and
the negroes and their allies speedily penetrated into the building.
The Spanish guard fought with great bravery, but they were
overpowered by the infuriated negroes. Yells, shrieks, and shouts
of all kinds resounded through the palace.

Before starting on their adventure, Ned and Gerald had exacted a
solemn oath, from each of the men who were to take part in it, that
on no account would he lift his hand against a defenseless person;
and also that he spare everybody who surrendered. The negroes were
greatly loath to take this promise, and had Ned urged them to do so
purely for the sake of humanity, the oath would unquestionably have
been refused; for in those days of savage warfare, there was little
or no mercy shown on either side. It was only on the ground of
expediency, and the extreme necessity of not irritating the
Spaniards beyond a certain point, that he succeeded in obtaining
their promise.

In the principal room of the palace they found the governor,
himself. His sword was in his hand, and he was prepared to defend
his life to the last. The boys, however, rushed forward; and cried
to him to throw his sword down, as the only plan by which his life
could be saved.