y, Mr Walter," observed Roger, "the last time I came up, I saw
that the boughs had given way over the pit we dug; but I was in too
great a hurry to look in. I have a notion, however, that something or
other has been caught, and whether it is that great brute with a horn on
his nose, or some other creature, I cannot say."

As darkness came on, we assembled in the largest cavern which had been
dug, in order that the light might not betray us. Here we found that
without danger--as the flame would be hid, and the smoke would, of
course, not be seen--we might light a fire and boil water, and cook our
food, which was a great luxury. Two of the party kept on watch while
the rest of us assembled to supper. The sentries were accompanied by
Merlin, who was a host in himself, as his quick ear was more likely to
catch the sound of approaching footsteps than any one among us. We
were, however, allowed to enjoy our meal in peace, and we, most of us
tired out, lay down to rest, while our watch was set as usual. Often
during the night I fancied I heard the cries of the Malays rushing up
the hill, and I started up to find that I had been dreaming. Hour after
hour passed by, Mr Thudicumb would not let me go on guard, as he said I
was already tired out. I slept on and on, and at length daylight
streamed in through the entrance of the rustic hut in which I had passed
the night. Emily and Grace were on foot, and soon afterwards Frau
Ursula made her appearance at the entrance of their bower. "No pirate
come," she observed. "I hope they go away, and not find us out." I
heartily hoped so also; but, at the same time, had it not been for the
girls, I own I should rather have liked to have had a brush with the
pirates, so confident did I feel that we could beat them off. Oliver
soon joined us. He looked somewhat pale, I fancied.

"I have not slept at all," he whispered to me. "I have been praying
that we may be protected from those fearful men. It would be so
dreadful to have to fight them. Before they could be driven off, so
many would be killed; and Walter, I confess I cannot bear the thoughts
of destroying our fellow-creatures."

"I do not wish it either," I said; "but if they come, they must take the
consequences."

I was sure that, notwithstanding his feelings, no one would fight more
bravely than Oliver. Those who had been on watch during the night, now
got up, and the whole party assembled in the centre of our fort.