Page:A dictionary of the Book of Mormon.pdf/134

Gid. out, assault their guards and attempt to escape, that their disposal became a matter of serious consideration with the Nephite commanders. It was finally decided to send a large number of them to Zarahemla, under a strong escort, commanded by an officer named Gid.

On the second day of their march, the Nephite scouts brought word to Gid that a large Lamanite force was approaching, on their way to relieve Cumeni. The Lamanite prisoners heard of the proximity of their fellow countrymen, and in the hope which it inspired, they took courage and determined to make a desperate effort for liberty. They made a united break, rushing upon their guards and endeavoring by the greatness of their numbers to overthrow them. The attempt proved very disastrous, for most of the prisoners were slain, while a few managed to escape to the armies of their countrymen. The prisoners having all escaped or been killed, there was no further reason for Gid and his company to continue their march to the Nephite capital, they therefore retraced their steps to the main body of the army.

Their return was most fortunate. For in their absence the Lamanites had been greatly strengthened, most probably by the same force that passed by near to the place where the prisoners held by Gid had revolted. Emboldened by this reinforcement, the Lamanite commander made a sudden and furious attack upon Helaman, which he was illy prepared to resist. A portion of his troops were already wavering, when Gid appeared. His arrival changed the fortunes of the day, the Nephites were victorious, they continued to hold possession of Cumeni, but their loss was very great. This is one of the battles in which Helaman's youthful Ammonite warriors made themselves conspicuous by their unfaltering faith and unflinching courage.