Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 2.djvu/126

102 of the best hogsheads lying in the storeroom.

It was at once evident that these things could only have been effected by their enemies of the rival plantation. All thoughts of labour therefore were set aside for the day; and a council of war was immediately held, to judge of the steps to be taken under such provoking circumstances. Messages were despatched to acquaint the owner—who resided at a little distance—with the facts of the case. A few of the overseers, and the cooler portion of the labourers, were for awaiting his arrival and decision; but a body of the more impetuous marshalled themselves in array, and hurried off in great force to revenge their insults on the opposite estate, and its labourers, without delay.

They approached the place in silence, but, as they came within sight of the main allotment, they observed a small body of guardians stationed beside it, as if expecting them. The sight raised their indignation; and they at once vented their outraged feelings in an unanimous whoop of defiance, which was responded to in a similar manner by their enemies on the watch. The besiegers rushed