The little clearing on one side
the house they thought would be its safeguard, but the fire was advancing
on three sides of them.
"Let us hold a council, as the Indians do, to consider what is to be done."
"I propose," said Louis, "retreating, bag and baggage, to the nearest point
of Long Island." "My French cousin has well spoken," said Hector, mimicking
the Indian mode of speaking; "but listen to the words of the wise. I
propose to take all our household stores that are of the most value, to the
island, and lodge the rest safely in our new root-house, first removing
from its neighbourhood all such light, loose matter as is likely to take
fire; the earthen roof will save it from destruction; as to the shanty, it
must take its chance to stand or fall."
"The fence of the little clearing will be burned, no doubt. Well, never
mind, better that than our precious selves; and the corn, fortunately, is
not yet sown," said Louis.
Hector's advice met with general applause, and the girls soon set to work
to secure the property they meant to leave.
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