means
of defence, and signals of alarm, that were adapted to the weakness and
character of the garrison. Several masses of rock were drawn to the edge of the
upper level, and, so placed, as to leave it at the discretion of the feeble
Ellen and her associates to cast them or not, as they might choose, on the heads
of any invaders, who would, of necessity, be obliged to mount the eminence, by
the difficult and narrow passage already so often mentioned. In addition to this
formidable obstruction, the barriers were strengthened, and rendered nearly
impassable. Smaller missiles, that might be hurled even by the hands of the
younger children, but which would prove, from the elevation of the place,
exceedingly dangerous, were provided in profusion. A pile of dried leaves and
splinters, was placed as a beacon on the upper rock, and then even in the
jealous judgment of the squatter, the post was deemed competent to maintain a
creditable siege.
    The moment the rock was thought to be in a state of sufficient security, the
party who composed what might be called the sortie, sallied forth, on their
anxious expedition. The advance was led by Esther in person, who, attired in a
dress half-masculine, and bearing a weapon like the rest, seem'd no unfit leader
for the groupe of wildly clad frontier-men, that followed in her rear.
    »Now, Abiram,« cried the Amazon in a voice that was cracked and harsh, for
the simple reason of being used too often on a strained and unnatural key, »now,
Abiram, run with your nose low, show yourself a hound of the true breed, and do
some credit to your training. You it was, that saw the prints of the Indian
moccasin, and it behoves you, to let others be as wise as yourself. Come; come
to the front, man, and give us a bold lead.«
    The brother, who appeared, at all times, to stand in awe of his sister's
authority, complied, though it was with a reluctance so evident, as to excite
sneers, even among the unobservant and indolent sons of the squatter. Ishmael,
himself, mov'd among his tall children like one who expected nothing from the
search, and who was indifferent, alike to its success or failure. In this manner
the party proceeded until their distant fortress had sunk so low, as to present
an object no larger nor more distinct than a hazy point, on the margin of the
Prairie. Hitherto their progress, had