t store
of ammunition for defence. Thus it will be seen that Windsor Hall,
protected by three vigorous men, well armed and stout of heart, was no
contemptible fortress against the rude attacks of a few savages, whose
number in all probability would not exceed twenty. The greatest
apprehension was from fire; but, strange to say, the savages but seldom
resorted to this mode of vengeance, except when wrought up to the
highest state of excitement.[7]

"At any rate," said the brave old Colonel, "we will remain where we are
until threatened with fire, and then at least avenge our lives with the
blood of these infamous wretches."

The doors and lower windows had been barricaded, and the three men,
armed to the teeth, stood ready in the hall for the impending attack.
Virginia and her mother were there, the former pale as ashes, but
suppressing her emotions with a violent effort in order to contribute to
her mother's comfort. In fact, the old lady, notwithstanding her boast
of bravery on the evening before, stood in need of all the consolation
that her daughter could impart. She vented her feelings in screams as
loud as those of the Indians she feared, and refused to be comforted.
Virginia, forgetful of her own equal danger, leant tenderly over her
mother, who had thrown herself upon a sofa, and whispered those sweet
words of consolation, which religion can alone suggest in the hour of
our trial:

"Mother, dear mother," she said, "remember that although earthly
strength should fail, we are yet in the hands of One who is mighty."

"Well, and what if we are," cried her mother, whose faith was like that
of the old lady, who, when the horses ran away with her carriage,
trusted in Providence till the breeching broke. "Well, and what if we
are, if in a few minutes our scalps may be taken by these horrible
savages?"

"But, dear mother, He has promised--"

"Oh, I don't know whether he has or not--but as sure as fate there they
come," and the old lady relapsed into her hysterics.

"Mother, mother, remember your duty as a Christian--remember in whom you
have put your trust," said Virginia, earnestly.

"Oh, yes, that's the way. Of course I know nothing of my duty, and I
don't pretend to be as good as others. I am nothing but a poor, weak old
woman, and must be reminded of my duty by my daughter, although I was a
Christian long before she was born. But, for my part, I think it's
tempting Providence to bear such a judgment with so