"
In a short time Mr. Seagrave returned, saying that the canoes were
close to the beach, that the savages evidently had a knowledge of the
passages through the reefs, as they had steered right in, and had
lowered their sails; that Ready and William were on the look-out, but
concealed behind the cocoa-nut trees.
"I hope they will not stay out too long."
"No fear of that, my dear Selina; but they had better watch their
motions to the last minute."
During this conversation between Mr. and Mrs. Seagrave within the
stockade, William and Ready were watching the motions of the savages, a
large portion of whom had landed out of ten of the canoes, and the
others were following their example as fast as they could, forcing
their way through the reefs. The savages were all painted, with their
war-cloaks and feathers on, and armed with spears and clubs, evidently
having come with no peaceable intentions.
William, who had taken the telescope to examine them more minutely,
said to Ready, "What a fierce, cruel set of wretches they appear to be;
if they overpower us they will certainly kill us!"
"Of that there is no doubt, William; but we must fight hard, and not
let them overpower us.
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