CHAPTER FIFTEEN.
CAPTAIN LAFFAN AND I GO OUT TO RECONNOITRE--A PRISONER--GAININGINFORMATION--THE SPANIARDS TWICE ASSAULT THE FORT, AND ARE REPULSED WITHSLAUGHTER--WE LOSE A NUMBER OF MEN--A COUNCIL OF WAR--SCARCITY OFAMMUNITION AND PROVISIONS--DON JUAN INVITES TWO OF US TO OBTAINASSISTANCE--LAFFAN AND I UNDERTAKE THE DUTY--WE SET OUT--NARROWLY ESCAPETHE SPANIARDS--ENTER A TOWN LATELY SACKED BY THEM--OBTAIN REFRESHMENT--DIRECTED ON OUR COURSE--A BIVOUAC FOR THE NIGHT--WE PROCEED NEXTMORNING--LAFFAN'S HORSE BITTEN BY A SNAKE--MY COMPANION TRUDGES FORWARDON FOOT--WE REACH A FARM--OBTAIN SHELTER AND FOOD, A HORSE AND A GUIDE,AND CONTINUE OUR JOURNEY.
Juan and most of our little garrison exulted in the idea that, after thedefeat we had inflicted on the Spaniards, they would abandon the attemptto take the fort, and retire from the neighbourhood.
"Do not be too sure of that," said Captain Laffan; "they will watchtheir opportunity, and attempt to surprise us if we are off our guard.They know the value of the pass too well to leave us in quietpossession. They may be looking all this time for a path over themountains, to try and take us in the rear; though they would find that ahard matter, to be sure."
Juan, however, still persisted in his belief that the Spaniards hadretired, and turned their attention to some other enterprise. Fearingthat this opinion would make him and his followers less vigilant, Ivolunteered to go out and reconnoitre.
"You shall not go alone," said Mr Laffan.
"No," I answered; "I intend to take Lion with me."
"I intend to go also," he replied. "I have done a little skirmishing inmy day, and three pairs of eyes will take in more than two. Indeed, Ido not think you should count much on the services Lion may render."
"He will, at all events, give us timely notice should we get near asentinel, or should one of the enemy approach us," I remarked.
"You are right," answered Mr Laffan. "We will go together; and I ampretty strongly of opinion that we shall bring Don Juan word that theenemy are not far off."
"But shall we go by night or day?" I asked.
"At night we should have the advantage of being able to get up to theenemy without being seen," said Mr Laffan; "but we should be quite aslikely to find ourselves in their midst before we had discovered wherethey were. Whereas in daylight, though we may find more difficulty inapproaching them, we shall be able to see any of their men moving aboutat a distance. During the day, too, they will be less likely to be onthe watch for scouts."
It was finally settled, after a discussion in which Juan and the otherofficers took part, that we should leave the fort just before dawn, andremain concealed until daylight, when we were to make our way in thedirection in which it was most probable that we should find theSpaniards, if they were still in the neighbourhood. This plan wasfinally agreed on; and Captain Laffan, Lion, and I, at the hour fixedon, left the fort, and made our way across the river to a grove of treeswhich afforded us sufficient concealment; while, should the Spaniardsthemselves have sent out any reconnoitring party to ascertain what wewere about, we should to a certainty discover them.
As soon as it was daylight we continued our route, Lion going on justbefore me, and turning round frequently to see if I was following. Byhis conduct, I was very sure that he understood the object of ourexpedition. We kept as much as possible under cover; occasionally whenwe came to open ground we ran across it in a stooping posture, so that,should we be seen by those at a distance, we might be mistaken foranimals. We had gone nearly a league without observing a human being,when we caught sight of a small hamlet in the distance, with a wood onone side, and a stream partly encircling it.
"That's a likely place for the enemy to have occupied," observed MrLaffan; "and if they are in the neighbourhood, we shall find themthere."
We now approached more cautiously than before, while Lion showed aconsiderable amount of excitement, as if he believed that an enemy wasnear. Presently he stopped short, then advanced slowly, like a tigerstealing on its prey, glancing back every now and then to ascertain ifwe were following. Again he stopped, and then came running towards us,when, placing himself directly before me, he pointed with his nose inthe direction he had before been taking.
We at once guessed that some one was concealed behind the brushwood; butif a sentry, he had not discovered us, or he would have fired. Weaccordingly determined to seize him and gain what information we could.Making a sign to Lion to keep behind, we cautiously crept on, bendingalmost to the ground, and completely hidden by the bushes. I made amotion to Lion to seize the man, if there was one. He understood me;and as he sprang forward we heard a half-stifled cry. The next instantwe saw Lion struggling with a soldier, who had dropped his musket, andwas endeavouring to draw his knife to thrust into the dog's body.
We grasped the fellow's arms, and quickly mastered him. It was at onceevident that he had been sitting down, while we were approaching, tolight his cigarrillo; or perhaps he might have dropped off to sleep.Releasing him from Lion, we threatened him with instant death if heopened his mouth or attempted to escape. Then, each of us taking anarm, we dragged him along towards the fort.
"If we carry this fellow with us, he will to a certainty be put todeath," I observed to Mr Laffan.
"I don't like the idea of that," said he.
"Nor do I," I answered. "The best thing we can do is to get whatinformation we can out of him, then bind him to a tree, and leave him.The Spaniards will discover him in time, and will yet be none thewiser."
"A good idea," said Mr Laffan.
The captive Spanish soldier looked imploringly at us, fully expectingthat his minutes were numbered.
"We do not intend to kill you," I said, "if you will give us a faithfulaccount of the number of troops in this neighbourhood, and what it isintended they should do,--whether they are about to attack the fortagain, or to march away; and if so, where they are going."
"Have I your word of honour?" asked the Spaniard, looking at me, verymuch puzzled to know who I could be, as he heard me speak in English,and then address him in genuine Spanish.
"You have my word. We have no wish to murder our enemies," said I.
"That's more than I can say for my countrymen," he answered. "I willtell you frankly, senor. There are a thousand men in yonder camp. Itwas intended to attack you again to-night. Our officers have resolvedto capture the fort at all risks, and they have told the men it must bedone. If you will undertake, senor, to protect my life, I will followyou, and serve you faithfully. I would rather do that than have againto assault yonder fort."
"I believe what you say," I answered; "but I cannot venture to take youwith me, for the Patriots would instantly put you to death, as they havevowed to do with every Spaniard who falls into their hands."
"I must submit to my hard fate, then," said the man.
"You will regain your liberty in a few hours," observed Captain Laffan.
"Ah, senor, if I am caught I shall be shot for sleeping at my post. Ifyou will give me my liberty I will run away, and not again fight againstyou."
"The very best thing such a fellow as you can do. I think we may trustyou," said Captain Laffan.
We led our prisoner on until within a short distance of the fort, when,instead of binding him, we let him go. He bolted away to thenorthward,--showing that he fully intended to carry out his promise.
On our return to Juan, he thanked us warmly for the service we hadrendered.
As may be supposed, we were all on the watch; and about two hours beforedawn we caught sight of the Spaniards advancing to the attack. As theycrossed the river, we opened a heavy fire upon them; to which theyreplied, and then rushed forward, attempting to storm the stockades.The fort, from one side to the other, was in a blaze of light. Each manwas fighting with desperation, and hurling back those who crossed theditch and endeavoured to climb the walls. After the Spaniards had madeseveral desperate attempts, they were driven back; and again gettingunder shelter, contented themselves with keeping up a hot fire at us.We, of
course, replied in the same fashion; but, except that bothparties expended a large amount of powder and shot, no great loss wassuffered. In the attack a considerable number had been killed andwounded, and not a few of our own men had been hit.
We waited, fully expecting that with the return of daylight the enemywould make another assault. And we were not mistaken; but the resultwas the same as before, though I cannot say that, had they persevered,they would not have got in. Greatly to our relief, however, we heardthe recall sounded. Once more they retired; and two of our men sallyingout, traced them back to their former quarters.
We were for some time employed in repairing the damage done to the fort,and in attending to the wounded; and while we buried our own dead, wesent out a party to throw the Spaniards who had fallen in the river, asthe easiest way of disposing of them. Several poor fellows who werefound wounded were mercilessly bayoneted, in spite of all Juan, MrLaffan, and I could urge to the contrary. Our men were generallysufficiently obedient; but when told to spare their enemies, who couldno longer oppose them, they turned away with scowling countenances, noteven deigning to reply--evidently resolved to carry out the fearfulspirit of revenge which animated them.
Our men were again rejoicing at having repulsed our foes, when Juansummoned us to a council of war.
"Though we may rejoice at the victory we have gained," he said, "yet ithas been dearly bought by the death of so many of the garrison, and bythe expenditure I find, of nearly all our ammunition. Should anotherattack be made, we have not a sufficient supply to repulse the enemy.Still I know that you and all my men will fight to the last, and that wemay offer an effectual resistance with our spears and swords. We areordered to hold this post, and I am resolved not to quit it alive, or wemight possibly cut our way through the enemy. After the losses theyhave received, they may not attack us for some time; so I propose tosend off any two of you who may be willing to go, to endeavour to reachthe general and obtain reinforcements, as well as a further supply ofammunition and provisions; though, in regard to the latter, we can liveon horse-flesh, if need be, until assistance reaches us."
Juan looked at the other officers; but they made no reply. He thenturned to Captain Laffan and me. "Are you willing to go?" he asked.
"With all my heart," answered Captain Laffan; "and I am sure I may saythe same for Duncan. We gained some experience of the country in ourreconnaissance the other day, and I feel sure we shall get off withoutbeing discovered."
"I am perfectly ready to go," I added; "but I am very unwilling to leaveyou, Don Juan, in so critical a position."
"Think not of me," answered Juan. "I have a duty to perform, and I maywell rejoice if I am called upon to die for the sake of my country."
We accordingly settled that we were to set out about three hours beforedawn, which would give us time to get beyond the enemy, and out of theirsight, when we should have the advantage of daylight for seeing our way.I confess I felt more out of spirits than usual when I bade my friendJuan farewell. A presentiment of evil oppressed me, as I thought of thedangers by which he was beset.
It was shortly after two o'clock in the morning, when Mr Laffan and I,having our horses' hoofs muffled, and followed, of course, by Lion, ledthem down to the river; crossing which, we took the road we had beforefollowed for some distance. We then turned to the left, along the baseof the hills. Between these and the hamlet occupied by the enemy, itwas possible that patrols might be met with, and if so we had agreed tomount and cut our way through them. As we were on foot, we hoped thatwe should not be perceived until close upon the enemy; we should thenhave a good chance of escaping. We trudged on, therefore, holding ourhorses by the left rein, so that we might mount in a moment.
We had got a good way to the westward, and, as we fancied, clear of theenemy, when, on doubling a high rock, round which the path led, we camesuddenly upon a picket. Owing to the precautions we had taken, however,they did not hear or see us until almost within a dozen paces. To leapon our horses and dig our spurs into their flanks, was the work of amoment; and before the Spanish soldiers could spring forward and seizeour reins, we had already got to a considerable distance beyond them.They immediately opened fire, but, owing to the darkness and theirsurprise, took very bad aim. Possibly, not hearing any sound, they tookus for phantom horsemen; but they continued to pepper away in thedirection we had taken, long after the darkness had hidden us from theirsight.
Not supposing that we should meet with another picket, we now dashedforward at full speed, the increasing light enabling us to see our way.Our horses, being perfectly fresh, went on for several leagues withoutflagging, and we now felt confident that there was but little chance ofour being pursued. Not, however, being acquainted with the country, weknew that unless we could obtain a guide we should very likely lose ourway, or take a much longer route than was necessary. With this objectin view, therefore, seeing a small town on our right we rode towards it,to procure the assistance we required, and obtain refreshments forourselves and steeds. Being uncertain who had possession of the place,I rode into the town, as I could pass there for an Englishman or aSpaniard, as the case might necessitate. I could thus obtain theinformation, while Mr Laffan remained on watch at some distance.
The place at first appeared deserted; but at length I saw three persons.One was lying in front of a door-step, another was apparently watchinghim,--both being badly wounded,--while a third, leaning against thewall, watched me as I approached.
"Friends," I asked, "what has happened lately in this town?"
"The Godos have passed through it, and as we were Patriots they burneddown a large part, and killed most of us. Look at yonder woman; shealone survives of all her family. You see almost all the remaininginhabitants," and the speaker uttered a bitter laugh.
"I can feel for you, for I am a Patriot," I answered; "and I want tofind my way to the army of General Bolivar."
"I would act as your guide, but I have no horse," answered the man; "andI could not sit one if I had; look here, senor,"--and he showed me asevere wound on his side. "Nor can we help you," he continued, "forthere is no young man left in the place who would be able to go; but Ican direct you on your road. And you will rejoice to hear, senor, thatthe last news which reached us is that the general has beaten theaccursed Godos; though whether it is true I know not. Good news nevertravels so fast as ill news."
I tried to cheer my new friend, and he undertook to obtain somerefreshments for us.
"You may enter any of the houses you please, for most of them are empty;but to mine you are welcome."
While he went to find some food and fodder for our horses, I rode backto where I had left Mr Laffan.
On our return we found plenty of fodder for our horses, but the farewith which we were supplied was very scanty, almost everything havingbeen carried off by the plunderers.
"If, however, we would wait," our host said, "he would find some fruit,and procure some fowls which had escaped."
As we were anxious to proceed, we begged that he would point out theroad we were to take. This he did, and we bade him farewell.
We had still some hours to ride before nightfall, when we must, ifpossible, find shelter. As far as we could judge, it might take usthree or four days to reach the Patriot camp, and some time must elapsebefore relief could be sent to Juan,--and what might not occur in themeantime?
Whenever we pulled rein, Mr Laffan stood up and took a survey of thecountry.
"It is wise to ascertain what's moving when traversing a country, or inour course through life," he observed. "We may thus know where to findour friends and avoid our foes."
Frequently, however, the view on either side was bounded by woods, thetrees rising to a prodigious size. Many of them ran up to an amazingheight in a straight line before they began to branch out. From some ofthe fig species, various shoots descended perpendicularly, where theytook root, so that we had no little difficulty in making our way throughthese woody columns. Between the openin
gs we caught sight of themountains rising to the skies; and occasionally a stream crossed ourpath, or ran foaming along on one side or the other.
We had hoped to reach some friendly village or farmhouse, where we mightrest during the hours of darkness, and obtain better food for our horsesthan they could pick up in the forest; but though we pushed on until anhour after sunset, no glimmering window-light appeared to beckon ustowards it, and we had at last to look about for an open space where wemight bivouac. We accordingly dismounted, and tethering our animals,commenced searching for wood to light a fire. We ran no small risk, asmay be supposed, of rousing up a venomous serpent, or disturbing a boaduring its rest, while at any moment a jaguar or puma might pounce downupon us, or a bear make its appearance. We succeeded in obtaining fuelenough to make a pretty large fire, and by its bright flames we the moreeasily obtained a further supply of wood. We had, however, but scantymaterials for a meal,--some fruit, and a few pieces of Indian cornbread. I gave part of my share to poor Lion, who looked up wonderinglyat finding himself put on short commons in a land of plenty. There wassufficient grass, however, for our horses to obtain a feed, and as wehad watered them a short time before, they were not so badly off.
Having collected fuel enough to last for the night, we cut a number ofsticks, which we ran into the ground to form a shelter against anysudden attack of wild animals during the night; and then, pretty welltired out, lay down to rest. Every now and then Captain Laffan or I gotup to change the position of our horses, but we dared not leave them farfrom the fire, lest some jaguar might spring out and kill one of them,although it might not be able to carry off its prey. Great as was ouranxiety, we by turns got some sleep; and at dawn, again mounting, werode forward. The sky, however, was cloudy, and we had greaterdifficulty than before in guiding our course.
We rode on for some hours, until the pangs of hunger and the necessityof resting ourselves made us resolve to stop. I was fortunate enough tokill a good-sized monkey, which was grinning down at us from a boughclose above our heads; and we also found as much wild fruit as werequired. So, having reached the banks of a stream, where we and ourhorses could get water, and where there was abundance of grass, wehalted, and quickly had a fire lighted, and part of our monkey roastingbefore it. The other part I had given to Lion, who was quite ready toeat it uncooked.
We again moved forward, but we both felt very doubtful whether we weregoing right. For my own part, I know but few sensations so disagreeableas the idea that one has lost one's way. We were passing along a lowsandy spot, with high bushes and trees on either side, when CaptainLaffan's horse gave a sudden start; and looking down, we saw a smallshiny snake gliding away. The horse had evidently been bitten, for wecould see the mark of the creature's fangs above the fetlock, and soonthe leg began to swell. The poor animal proceeded with the greatestdifficulty. What remedies to apply we neither of us knew, but we hadheard of the existence of a small snake called the aranas, the poisonfrom whose fangs is so subtle that animals bitten often die within anhour; and even when remedies are applied, few are ever saved.
"The creature might have bitten either of ourselves," I observed.
"I do not think this species ever attacks man,--though I should not liketo put the matter to the test," answered Captain Laffan.
There was no use in our stopping, especially as there might be othersnakes of the same kind in the neighbourhood. We therefore, as long asthe poor horse could move, pushed forward; but its pace became more andmore sluggish, as the limb continued to swell. At length the animalstopped altogether, and my companion, feeling it tremble, leaped off.Scarcely had he done so when it came to the ground, and lay strugglingin violent convulsions. Mr Laffan contrived to take off the saddlebefore it was damaged. In a few minutes, foaming at the mouth, thehorse died, evidently in great pain.
"No use groaning over what cannot be helped," observed the captain."You take the saddle, and put it before you; I'll carry the bridle; andI must try to get another horse as soon as possible."
The delay was serious, but it could not be helped; so we moved along,Mr Laffan trudging by my side. I asked him to get up, but hepositively refused to do so.
The belief that we had lost our road was still further depressing. Ithought especially of the serious consequences which might ensue to Juanshould we not soon obtain the assistance of which we were in search. Atlength my eye fell on a papaw-tree, and what appeared to be a hut justbelow it. Riding on, we saw a Creole peasant-woman walking along andspinning, evidently near her home. At first, on seeing us, she seemeddisposed to fly; but on our calling to her and assuring her that we werefriends, she stood still, waiting for us to come up. Our wants weresoon explained: we should be glad, of a horse, a guide, and especiallyof some food. Food she could give us. Her husband was out, she said,but he would soon return, and he would procure a horse, of which therewere several broken-in on the farm; and perhaps he himself would act asour guide.
Eager to push on, our patience was greatly tried; though we waited andwaited, the woman's husband did not appear. At last Mr Laffan proposedgoing out and catching one of the horses.
"But then you will not know in what direction to ride," observed thewoman. "You have no right, either, to take the horse without myhusband's leave."
"Might makes right," answered Mr Laffan; "however, we will not act thepart of robbers, but will pay you handsomely for the horse."
This promise satisfied the poor woman.
Fortunately, just as we were setting out the husband returned, and wasevidently well-pleased at the thought of getting a good price for one ofhis animals. He also undertook to guide us, if we could wait until thenext morning at daybreak, and would promise him a reward. He took goodcare, indeed, that we should not start before then, as it was nearlydark before he returned with the horse. It was a tolerably good animal,though rather small, and we willingly promised him the price he asked.He described to us feelingly the terror he had been in lest the Godosshould visit his farm; though, excepting a few cattle and horses, therewas little they could have obtained. His wife had been in still greaterfear lest they might carry her husband off as a recruit; but he had keptin hiding, and she had conveyed food to him from day to day, until theSpaniards had left the neighbourhood.
We managed to rest with tolerable comfort on heaps of Indian cornleaves, and slept securely, without the fear of being attacked byjaguars, bears, or other wild beasts, or being bitten by serpents.
Faithful to his promise, our host appeared the next morning with thehorse for Mr Laffan, while he brought a smaller animal for himself.His wife insisted on putting up a supply of food for the day, and wasevidently unwilling to receive any reward. After a good breakfast westarted, thankful to find ourselves on the right road.
CHAPTER SIXTEEN.
OUR GUIDE COMPLAINS OF OUR RAPID PACE--HE LEAVES US--WE MEET CAPTAINLOPEZ--OUR DOUBTS AS TO HIS OBJECT--IN A DESERTED HUT--WE MEET UNCLERICHARD AND A BODY OF INFANTRY--WE TURN BACK WITH HIM--A RAPID STREAM--FINDING A BRIDGE--THE SPANIARDS ADVANCING--A RUSH TO GAIN THE BRIDGE--WEREACH IT FIRST--A FIGHT--THE SPANIARDS DEFEATED--NO PRISONERS TAKEN--WEAPPROACH THE FORT--CAPTAIN LAFFAN AND I RIDE ON TO RECONNOITRE--SIGNS OFDISASTER--OUR MEN FIRE--A FLOCK OF GALENACHAS RISES FROM THE FORT, WHICHAPPEARS IN RUINS--DEAD BODIES SCATTERED ABOUT--DISCOVERY OF THAT OFJUAN--WE RAISE A TOMB OVER HIS GRAVE--THE ARMY OF BOLIVAR--DESCRIPTIONOF THE GENERAL--TREACHERY OF COLONEL LOPEZ--ATTEMPT TO ASSASSINATEBOLIVAR--NUMEROUS ENGAGEMENTS--PRAISE FROM THE GENERAL--MY RETURN HOME--AN INTERVIEW WITH DONA DOLORES--SHE JOINS THE ARMY--WAR THE GREATESTCURSE THAT CAN AFFLICT A COUNTRY--CONCLUSION.
We endeavoured to make up for lost time by galloping as fast as ourhorses would go, whenever the ground would admit of our doing so. Everymoment might be of consequence. Should the Spaniards again attack thefort, we knew too well that our friends would have a hard matter to holdit. Our guide frequently exclaimed that we should knock up our steeds,or bring them to the ground.
"Never fear, my friend,"
said Mr Laffan; "if we do, we must pickourselves up again."
"But your bones, senors, your bones; you will break them or your necks,"murmured our guide.
"Never mind--we must do the best we can; you don't know what weEnglishmen are made of," said Mr Laffan.
"But I may break my neck, and then what will become of my poorMargarida?" cried our guide.
"We will do our best to console her, and find her another husband. On,on!" cried Mr Laffan.
In vain were all the expostulations of our guide. The dominie lashedhis little steed, and up hill and down dale we kept on. Probably Tomasowould have left us to pursue our course alone and find our own way, hadnot my friend wisely kept back a portion of the price of the horse, lestsuch a trick might be played us. At last Tomaso pointed out what hecalled the highroad, and assured us that by keeping straight on weshould in time reach the Patriot camp. How far off it was, however, hedid not say. He now begged hard for the sum we owed him.
"Here it is, my friend; you have well earned it, I own," said MrLaffan, handing him the amount.
He was profuse in his expressions of gratitude. "A fortunate journey toyou, caballeros; and may the Patriot cause prove triumphant," he added,as, making a low bow, he turned his horse's head and rode back the waywe had come.
We had not got far when we saw a horseman galloping in hot haste towardsus; by his dress and accoutrements we knew him to be an officer. As hegot nearer I recognised him to be Captain Lopez. He pulled up, andbegan to address us before he recognised either of us.
"Can you tell me, caballeros, if a division of the Spanish forces isstationed anywhere in the neighbourhood? I am told that such is thecase."
"And what object, Captain Lopez, have you for wishing to know where tofind the Spanish forces?" asked Captain Laffan, looking sternly at him."Surely you are not going to desert to them!"
Captain Lopez now recognised us, and looked very much confused. Heanswered--
"No; desert to them, no! I am not a deserter, but I wish to ascertaintheir whereabouts, that the Patriots, who are advancing in thisdirection, may be prepared to encounter them."
Captain Laffan looked incredulous, but simply asked--
"Whereabouts are we likely to find the Patriots, as we wish to join themwithout delay, and possibly can give them the information you are goingto obtain?"
I remarked that he said nothing about Juan, or that our object was tobring him assistance. Captain Lopez, however, inquired where Juan'stroop had gone, observing that it was supposed he had joined Bolivar.Whether he really knew the true state of the case, I could not tell.
Captain Laffan was as reticent as at first. "Now, Captain Lopez, wemust not delay; we possess all the information you wish to gain, and Iwould advise you to turn back with us, or you may chance to fall intothe hands of the enemy."
In answer to this remark Captain Lopez made several excuses, and at lastsaid, "I'll ride on for a short distance, and then follow you back.Farewell, senors, for a short time;" and he continued his course in thedirection he was before going.
"The scoundrel!" exclaimed Captain Laffan as we galloped on; "I am verysure that he is on no good errand. We should have served the cause byshooting him."
We had very little time to make remarks, as we had generally to ride onebefore the other, but our suspicions of the object Captain Lopez had inview made it more important than ever that we should reach the Patriotswithout delay, and hurry them on to the succour of Don Juan and his hardpressed garrison.
Another night arrived, and we were still unable to ascertain how far offthe Patriots were encamped. Had our horses been able to move, weshould, in spite of the dangers of the road, have pushed on in the dark.There was just light enough for us to discover a deserted hut. At theback was a garden overgrown with grass, into which we turned our horses.A well in one corner supplied them with water, and we were sure thatthey would not wish to stray; while the thick hedge and trees whichsurrounded the garden concealed them from the view of any one passing.We ourselves were not likely to be discovered unless by a personentering the hut. The food with which our good hostess Margarida hadsupplied us afforded a tolerable supper, with something over forbreakfast. We could not doubt but that early the next day we shouldfall in with the Patriots.
Scarcely yet persuaded that Captain Lopez was acting treacherously, asCaptain Laffan supposed, I half expected to see him return.
"If he does, it will be with a party of the enemy," said my companion,"and we shall be made prisoners, unless we get due notice and can gallopoff."
This idea made us more wakeful than we should otherwise have been, forLion doing duty as sentry was sufficient protection. The morning,however, came, and no enemy appeared. I shared my portion of theremaining stock of food with Lion, who had been for some time on shortcommons, as vegetable diet did not suit his constitution.
We had gone some distance when, as we were stopping to water our horsesat a stream, my ear caught the tramp of feet.
"There is a large body of infantry coming along the road," I exclaimed;"I trust that they may be friends, or we shall have to cut across thecountry to avoid them."
Captain Laffan listened, and was satisfied that I was right.
"We must approach cautiously," he said, "and be prepared to turn to theright-about if they should prove to be enemies."
We instantly mounted and rode on, and before long came in sight of thetroops.
"They are Patriots, I am sure, from their dress, and the flags theycarry," said Captain Laffan.
He was right. As we got nearer a mounted officer rode forward. To myinfinite satisfaction I saw that he was Uncle Richard; while Antoniocame close behind him, dressed as an officer.
"Hurrah! rejoiced to see you, Duncan; and you too, Captain Laffan,"exclaimed Uncle Richard as he recognised us. "Where do you come from?Tell me all about it as we ride along; you will accompany me, for weshall soon halt to let the men dine, and you can then get what food yourequire."
We briefly told him the object of our journey.
"I knew that Don Juan was ordered to hold the fort, but I littlesupposed that he was so hard pressed. However, I hope we shall be intime to relieve him. You see these fine fellows?" and he pointed to themen. "I have been busy for some months, while you were away, raisingand drilling them; and though I cannot say much for the uniformity oftheir appearance, I am pretty sure that, if well led--as I flattermyself they will be--they will do good service when we meet the enemy.I have had some difficulty in getting efficient officers, but I chosethe best men I could find, independent of all other considerations. Ihave a Black, and two pure-blooded Indians, while the rest are Creoles.I found your former servant Antonio so intelligent and brave a fellow,that I gave him a company."
"I am delighted to hear it," I answered. "In a noble cause like oursthere should be but one consideration,--to find the best men for everypost; and if they have once been slaves, they are more likely to fightfor freedom."
Our great object now was to march forward and attack the Spaniardsbefore they could capture the fort. That we should come up with theenemy in time, I could not help thinking, was very uncertain. Our men,however, were well able to advance as rapidly as any troops could move.Except their muskets and powder, they were unencumbered with anyaccoutrements, or indeed with any superfluous clothing. They requiredbut little food, and that of the coarsest description. Accustomed tothe use of firearms from their boyhood, they had quickly been turnedinto efficient soldiers. We had intelligent guides, also, who knew thecountry, and were able to point out the best paths for our advance.
A short time only was allowed for the men to take their dinner, afterwhich we marched on again until nightfall. At first it seemed somewhatstrange to find myself seated round our camp-fire with Antonio, and tohear him addressed as "Captain;" but I did not allude to our formerrelative positions. In a short time, however, as he bore his honourswell, and behaved in a thoroughly officer-like way, this feeling woreoff, and it seemed
quite natural to speak to him as an equal. He wasonly one of many who at that period rose from the ranks. One of thebravest generals in the Patriot army had been a slave. Indeed, GeneralPaez had been a herd-boy, and Arismendez a fisherman. Bolivar was oneof the few Patriot leaders of high family, for the Spaniards had put todeath the larger number of the men of influence and Liberal principles,before the struggle for liberty began.
The next morning we recommenced the march two hours before daylight,when the men appeared fresh and in good spirits. We had again advancedsome distance after our noonday halt when we came to a rapid river,running between high cliffs, over which, we had learned from our guides,a strong wooden bridge had been thrown. Had it not been for this bridgethe passage of the river would have cost us great delay, as we shouldhave had to descend by narrow pathways to the bottom of the cliffs, thento throw a pontoon across, and ascend on the other side. In the face ofan enemy this would have been impossible.
I had ridden forward, curious to examine the structure of the bridge ofwhich our guides had spoken. I found that strong timbers had been fixedon the ledges in the cliffs projecting over the stream, serving tosupport a platform; from this platform others were pushed forward oneither side, the inner ends lashed to the first platform, while a centreone joined the two. Railings ran along on either side of this ingeniousstructure, which had a roof supported on poles--the object apparentlybeing to prevent the wood-work from rotting with the wet.
I had got a short distance along the bridge, when I caught sight of abody of men coming over the ridge of a hill scarcely a mile off.Another look convinced me that they were Spanish troops; while theadvance-guard of our force was nearly as far off on the other side. Iwaited for a moment longer, to judge whether, by the movements of theSpaniards, the latter had been seen; but I judged that they wereconcealed by the trees and rocks which lay between thorn, while they ontheir part had not discovered the enemy. The possession of the bridgewas of the greatest importance, and I knew that the Spaniards, so soonas they should discover the Patriots, would make a rush down the hill togain it. Partly hid as I was by the roof and railings of the bridge, Ihoped that I had not been seen. To avoid the risk of being discovered,therefore, I slipped off my horse, and turning its head led it backuntil I got under shelter of some trees; when, mounting, I galloped ashard as I could until I met Uncle Richard, who instantly gave the wordto advance at the double.
The Spaniards, who were already descending the hill, rushed down withheadlong speed on discovering us, hoping to gain the bridge before ourparty had secured it. We at once dashed across to hold it against theSpanish advance-guard, which had nearly reached it. As the enemy saw uscrossing they opened a hot fire, but, the distance being considerable,their bullets did no damage, and we were soon across without a casualty.Directly afterwards the head of our column appeared, and impetuouslycharged along the bridge. They came not a bit too soon, for already wewere engaged with those of the Spaniards who had advanced ahead of theircompanions, whose numbers were every moment increasing, and who pressedus fearfully hard. In the meantime the Spanish troops, as theydescended the hill, opened fire on our men,--those who were waiting tocross replying to it from the other side.
As I looked up the hill I feared, from the numbers descending, that weshould be shot down before a sufficient number of the Patriots couldcross to hold their own until our main body had got over. Our men,however, pressed forward and formed rapidly. In another minute we hadsecured our ground, and driven back the enemy a dozen yards or more,affording sufficient space for the main body to form up as they crossed.Several had been shot, and had fallen over into the torrent, which wasalready dyed with blood.
The order was now given to charge. The Spaniards, in their eagerness toreach the bridge, had been thrown into disorder as they descended thehill. Our left wheeled, turned their flank, and drove them down towardsthe river; while our right stood its ground. The contest was short, butsharp. In the course of a few minutes, it seemed, the larger number ofthe Spaniards were hurled over the cliffs; while the rest, in utterconfusion, attempted to retreat up the hill, but were followed by ournimble-footed men, and cut down or bayoneted.
No victory could have been more complete. Not a Spaniard who was takenwas allowed to live. Of the whole force, numbering some five or sixhundred men, those only escaped who contrived to hide themselves inditches or behind bushes or rocks, or whose activity enabled them tokeep ahead of their pursuers. Our chief casualties had occurred whileour men were crossing the bridge, but, in all, we had lost comparativelyfew.
The summit of the hill gained, we halted to reform our troops, and thenonce more advanced. Whether or not the Spaniards we had defeated werethose who had attacked the fort, we could not tell, as not a prisonerhad been saved. In vain did Uncle Richard call to his followers tospare the lives of those who yielded; his orders were not listened to.The men only followed the custom of that savage warfare, and the exampleof the Spaniards, upon whom they thus fearfully retaliated.
Once more we advanced. Another day passed; and it was late on the nextbefore we reached the neighbourhood of the fort. I looked out eagerlyto ascertain whether the besiegers were still before it, but as yet nota sign could I discover of the enemy. The hamlet occupied by theSpaniards appeared to be deserted. I now felt convinced that the bodywe had defeated was part of the force which had been besieging the fort,while the remainder had probably marched in an opposite direction. Wehad seen nothing of Captain Lopez, however, and he certainly was notwith those Spaniards whom we had encountered.
Now came the question, What was the fate of the garrison? Had they beenable to hold out until the Spaniards, growing weary of the attempt, hadgiven it up? or had the fort been successfully assaulted, and itsdefenders cut to pieces? If so, the Spaniards must now have possession,and it would be our turn to attack them, and to attempt its recapture.This would not be so difficult a task to us as it had proved to theSpaniards, as Captain Laffan and I knew every point about it, and everyspot from whence it was assailable.
The first thing to be done, however, was to make a reconnaissance; andCaptain Laffan and I rode on for this purpose. With our glasses we sawfrom a distance that no flag was flying; and as we got nearer wediscovered that the flagstaff itself was broken short off, and that thetower was fearfully shattered, while parts of the stockades were throwndown, and the whole fort seemed in the most dilapidated condition.
"A bad omen, that," observed my companion; "but, at the same time, itmay have been shot through, and a puff of wind have blown it down."
My heart began to sink, as, still further lessening our distance, wecould see no one moving in the fort. It appeared to be deserted. Asthis, however, might not be the case--for the garrison might possibly bekeeping concealed--we advanced cautiously, halting again just out ofmusket-shot. We waited for some time, but not a moving object could wediscern. By this time we had been joined by several men on foot.Captain Laffan ordered them to creep forward and fire, thinking that thesalute might elicit a reply should an enemy be holding the fort. As thereport went echoing among the rocks, a whole flight of galenachas wingedtheir flight to the summit of the neighbouring cliffs, whence they couldwatch an opportunity of again descending to finish their horriblebanquet. We knew now, to a certainty, that no living beings occupiedthe fort. What had been the fate of our friends?
Eager to ascertain the worst, we rode forward, and, fording the stream,made our way over a mass of ruins which filled the ditch, into theinterior. The scene which presented itself told a sad tale. There lay,round the tower, the bodies of friends and foes in equal numbers, withlimbs torn, clothing burnt, and countenances blackened. With asickening heart I searched for one form, if it could be distinguishedfrom the other disfigured remains of humanity. It was not long before Irecognised the uniform my brave friend had worn. He was lying directlyunder the wall, while one hand still grasped the jewelled sword I hadseen Dona Dolores gird to his side. Yes, it was he, my gallant fr
iend!I knew him by his features, though scorched and blackened and fearfullychanged, and by a ring he had worn, as well as by the watch in hispocket.
Captain Laffan found me kneeling by the side of my dead friend, unableto restrain my grief.
"It is the fortune of war, Duncan. A more gallant fellow neverbreathed; and he died a noble death--in discharge of his duty," said mylate dominie. "Don't give way, my boy; he did not die in vain."
"But Dona Dolores!" I exclaimed; "her heart will break when she hearsof it."
"It's of sterner stuff than that, I've a notion. But come, we must seeat once about giving him a soldier's grave while there is yet time, forwe may soon have other work to do."
Taking my dead friend's sword, and his ring and watch, that I might givethem to Dona Dolores, I rose from the ground.
In a short time Captain Antonio came up with the advance-guard. Oncounting the slain, we found that they numbered more than half thegarrison. The rest might possibly have cut their way out; if not, theymust have been taken prisoners, and, to a certainty, afterwards shot. Astill greater number of Spaniards had been destroyed. All that we couldsuppose was, that Juan, when he found that successful resistance wasimpossible, had blown up the tower, and perished with such of theassailants as had made good their entrance.
A grave was dug for Juan beneath a wide-spreading tree, some little wayup the valley. We there laid him to rest; and a volley having beenfired over his remains, a heap of unhewn rocks was piled up above themto serve as the young Patriot's tomb.
"When our cause is triumphant, and peace returns, I will erect a marblemonument to his memory," I said. And I kept my word.
Our men, in order to save themselves trouble, cast the remainder of thebodies into the river,--caring very little for thus horribly pollutingthe pure water. I had before thought war a terrible thing, but thescenes I had lately witnessed impressed me still more forcibly with ahorror of its fearful results. What hundreds--what thousands, I mightsay--of human beings had perished miserably within the last few months!How many more, too, were doomed to die! Then I thought of the towns andvillages committed to the flames; the corn-fields, the orchards, andgardens destroyed; and, more than all, of the widows and orphans who,while bewailing the loss of those they loved, their protectors andbread-winners, were doomed to struggle on in poverty; and the numberlessfamilies, formerly in affluence, now reduced to absolute beggary. Suchwas the state of my native land. And yet no one complained--all wereready to struggle on in the cause of Liberty; blaming, not those who hadrisen to fight for freedom, but the tyranny of their oppressors as thecause of all they endured.
While we were encamped at a neighbouring hamlet, which affordedsufficient means for defence, and enabled us to watch the fort, adespatch arrived for Juan, ordering him to evacuate it. Alas! had itcome sooner, he and his companions might have preserved their lives, asI believe he would have succeeded, had he made the attempt, in cuttinghis way through the enemy; but, influenced by a stern sense of duty, hehad held it after all hope of successfully defending it had gone. Thisadded greatly to my grief at his loss.
General Bolivar had heard of the corps Uncle Richard had raised, and nowsent forward requesting him to join his army without delay. By forcedmarches across the mountains, in which both officers and men sufferednot a little, we reached the general's camp, and I had the honour ofbeing introduced to him. I little expected to see so young a man. Inperson he was small, but well-made and muscular, and able to go throughastonishing exertion--frequently marching on foot over mountains andplains without exhibiting the slightest fatigue. His eyes were dark,large, and full of fire and penetration, denoting wonderful energy ofmind and greatness of soul. His nose was aquiline and well-formed, hisface rather long, and his complexion somewhat sallow. As Uncle Richardand I had the honour of being invited to his table, I had an opportunityof seeing him in his social moments. He was lively in his manner, fullof anecdote and conversation; and it was said that, like Buonaparte, hepossessed the power of reading at once a man's character, and placinghim in a position where his talents and abilities would prove useful tohis country. He was also thoroughly disinterested, and so little regarddid he pay to himself under the most severe privations, that he wasalways ready to share what he possessed with his companions-in-arms, tohis last cigar or his last shirt. He was always cool, and invariablydisplayed the most undaunted courage. He was, to be sure, hasty in histemper, and often made use of intemperate expressions, abusing in nomeasured manner those who had annoyed him; but, at the same time, he wasever ready to make atonement to the person whose feelings might havebeen undeservedly wounded. In his bosom revenge was never harboured,and it was owing entirely to the atrocities committed by the Spaniardson the Patriots that he was induced to carry on against them thatfearful war of extermination which so long raged throughout the country.Bolivar might not have been a hero to his own valet, but by those whotruly understand heroic qualities he should be deservedly placed on ahigh niche in the temple of Fame. I may add that he was temperate inhis diet, drank but a very moderate quantity of wine, never touchedspirits, and that he seldom smoked. Generally he was the last to retireto rest, and the first to rise.
Soon after joining the army, to my surprise I met Lopez, now raised tothe rank of colonel. He appeared to be intimate with many of theofficers, but kept aloof from Captain Laffan and me, as well as fromUncle Richard, whom I should properly designate as Colonel Duffield.
We had marched forward until we heard that Murillo, with a large force,was in the neighbourhood.
One night Captain Laffan and I had been invited to dine with severalEnglish officers, and our host told us that he expected Colonel Lopez.However, when the dinner-hour arrived Colonel Lopez did not appear. Amessage was despatched to his quarters, but he was nowhere to be found.
"It's my belief," exclaimed Captain Laffan, "that the fellow hasdeserted! You will see that I am right; he was intending to do so whenwe met him."
Dinner over, we again retired to our quarters, and all was stillness inthe camp. As I wished to take a few turns to enjoy the cool night air,I accompanied one of Bolivar's aides-de-camp who was about to visit theoutposts, when we met a small body of troops marching towardsheadquarters. The officer in command gave the countersign, and theywere allowed to proceed. Just then, who should we meet but ColonelLopez, who informed my companion that he had some news of importance tocommunicate to General Bolivar respecting an intended movement of theenemy which he had just obtained from a deserter, and requested that hemight be conducted to the general's tent.
"If you will remain here, I will immediately acquaint the general withwhat you say, and beg that you may be admitted," was the answer.
I returned with the aide-de-camp, but left him near Bolivar's tent todeliver the message. I had not got many yards off, however, when Iheard a volley of musketry fired close to me, and directly, as itseemed, at the tent. An instant afterwards I saw a party of men, whomust have followed close upon us, disappearing in the darkness.
"To arms!--to arms! the enemy are upon us!" was the cry, and soongeneral confusion ensued. The troops got under arms, and some fired inthe direction taken by the fugitives, but in the darkness it wasimpossible to see whether any were hit. The fear was that the generalmust have been killed, and every one was in dismay until he himself roderound, quieting the alarm of the men. He had fortunately quitted histent a few minutes previously, and was not many yards off when thefiring took place. On examining his cot, it was found that three orfour bullets had passed right through it, so that he must have beenkilled, or severely wounded, had he not providentially left his tent.
Few in the camp slept that night. A treacherous attempt had evidentlybeen made to assassinate our general. When morning came we looked outin the direction of the enemy's camp. On the ground lay two bodies, anda party was sent out to bring them in. One of them was that of ColonelLopez; and on his person was discovered a paper proposing a plan toMurillo for penetratin
g the camp with a party of Spaniards disguised asPatriots, and putting Bolivar to death. It was countersigned asapproved of by the Spanish general. Such, then, was the fate of therejected suitor of Dona Dolores.
I have not space to describe the several engagements which followed, butColonel Duffield and Captain Laffan, who soon became a major, gained thecredit they deserved for their gallantry on numerous occasions, and Ihad the satisfaction of being praised by Bolivar himself. However, thesevere life we led at length affected both Major Laffan and me, andColonel Duffield, in whose corps we served, insisted that we shouldreturn home to obtain the quiet and rest we required. The road was nowopen to Popayan, and we were able to travel with a small escort ofinvalids and wounded men, who, like ourselves, were unfit for service,and were anxious to return home.
With feelings of considerable anxiety we rode up to my father's house,for what might not have happened during our absence we could not tell.Great, therefore, was my joy when we were greeted at the entrance by mymother, Dona Maria, Rosa, and jolly little Hugh, who all threw theirarms about my neck at once, and then bestowed a similar affectionategreeting on the major--who declared, as tears streamed down his cheeks,that it gave him as much joy to see them all well, as it had to beat theSpaniards in the last battle we had fought; while Lion, who had followedat my heels, was next saluted in nearly the same fashion, while hebarked, yelped, and leaped about, evidently delighted to get home. DonaMaria looked very pale, and was evidently anxious about Uncle Richard,but we were able to give a very favourable account of him. Like manyother wives, she had learned to endure her anxiety.
My father was out, but he soon returned, and expressed his satisfactionat the high encomiums which had been bestowed upon me by ColonelDuffield, and even by Bolivar himself.
"I have just come from visiting Dona Dolores," he said. "She has heardthe report of Don Juan's death, but will not believe it; and I am afraidthat it must be your painful task, Duncan, to convince her."
As soon as I could unpack the sword and the other articles which I hadcarefully preserved, I returned with my father to the house of thefriend with whom she was staying. On hearing that I had come, shedesired to see me alone. I felt more nervous than I had ever done in mylife before, supposing that she would give way to her sorrow, and thatit would be incumbent on me to endeavour to console her, impossible asthat might be. What to say, indeed, I knew not.
I found her dressed in mourning for her father, and looking very pale.She was seated, but she rose when I entered, and advancing towards me,took my hand. Her eye fell on the sword, then on the ring on my finger.
"I know what you have to tell me, Duncan," she said in a deep-tonedvoice, but without a falter; "he died as I would have had him,--fightingbravely for the freedom of his country--for the same cause to which Idedicated my life. Give me that weapon: I would present it to you, butI must use it myself; not to avenge his death, but to take his place andwield it against the foes of Freedom. That ring--give it me; he sendsit as a farewell token." She placed it on her finger. "Now, tell methe particulars."
I endeavoured to describe the circumstances of Juan's death, and how hehad held the fort until all hope had gone.
She had remained standing during the time of our interview.
"Farewell, Duncan," she said at last. "I must prepare for a sternerlife than I have hitherto led. As yet it has been one suited to adelicate creature like Dona Paula Salabariata--a mere scribe,endeavouring to incite others to do the task I should undertake myself."
I took my leave of Dona Dolores; and the next morning we heard that,attended by two servants, she had set out, habited in half-militarycostume, for the army. Some time passed before we heard of her again.She had joined a regiment, and taken part in every action. She seemedto bear a charmed life, too, for, although always in the thickest of thefight, the bullets passed her harmlessly by.
Years have rolled on since then, and the cause of Liberty has triumphed.When peace was obtained, I married my so-called cousin, the fair-hairedRosa; and my dear little sister became the wife of a gallant Englishofficer who settled in the country.
I have described these scenes of warfare, not for the sake ofencouraging a love of fighting, but for a very contrary object; and fromthe horrors I witnessed during that period, I am convinced that War isthe greatest curse that can afflict a country, and I earnestly pray thatthe reign of Peace may soon commence on earth.
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