Page:Famous Negro robber, and terror of Jamaica, or, The history and adventures of Jack Mansong.pdf/12

 the ground; then, seizing as much booty as he could dispose of, fled to his cave.

The slaves recovering from their fright, ran to the planter, and informed him of the appearance of Three-Finger'd Jack. He was as much surprised as themselves, though differently instigated; their surprise was mingled with excessive fear; his was at the daring impudence of this bold marauder, who could assume courage enough to venture before seven hundred negroes.

Jack having continued his ravages for nearly a year, Captain Orford, a young Englishman of good birth, and a most amiable disposition, had come over to Jamaica, with a party of soldiers, who were to be garrisoned there. Rosa, the daughter of Mr Chapman, an eminent planter in Maroon's Town, had cast a favourable eye upon Orford, who also affectionately beheld her.

Mr. Chapman, who had much at heart the happiness of his daughter, finding that Orford really loved her, consented to their speedy nuptials. The lovers were transported with the joyful presage of future happiness; but their joy was soon damped by an unexpected event.

Captain Orford, unacquainted with fear, or the true character of our hero, frequently traversed the Blue Mountains, accompanied by his favorite negro boy Tuckey, to enjoy the breeze which lightly famed the mountains' tops. One day, thoughtless of danger, he proceeded till he came near the mouth of Jack's cave. Jack was seated upon a crag; who no sooner saw Orford than he leaped down. Tuckey gave a loud scream, and Orford preparing for the combat, drew his sword; Jack smiled upon him with contempt, and lifting op his gun by the muzzle, knocked him down with the butt-end.