It is fortunate that Edward left the guns and pistols which
he found in Clara's cottage, as we shall have no want of firearms; and
we can barricade the doors and windows, so that they can not get in in
a hurry; but I must have Pablo to help me, for there is no time to be
lost."
"But can not I help you, Humphrey?" said Alice. "Surely I can do
something?" "We will see, Alice; but I think I can do without you. We
have still plenty of daylight. I will take the box into your room."
Humphrey, who had only taken the box out of the cart and carried it
within the threshold of the door, now took it into his sisters'
bedroom, and then went out and called Pablo, who came running to him.
"Pablo," said Humphrey, "we must bring to the cottage some of the
large pieces we sawed out for rafters; for I should not be surprised
if the cottage were attacked this night." He then told Pablo what had
taken place. "You see, Pablo, I dare not send to the intendant to-
night, in case the robbers should come here."
"No, not send to-night," said Pablo; "stay here and fight them; first
make door fast, then cut hole to fire through."
"Yes, that was my idea. You don't mind fighting them, Pablo?"
"No; fight hard for Missy Alice and Missy Edith," said Pablo; "fight
for you too, Massa Humphrey, and fight for myself," added Pablo,
laughing.
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