This girl was the chiefs daughter, and respect for her rank induced them to hesitate for a moment; but in another instant the Portuguese captain was surrounded.

In the scuffle that ensued his musket exploded, but fortunately wounded no one.

Instantly the horrified savages fled in all directions leaving Carreo alone! "The captain was quick-witted.

He knew that among hundreds of savages it was madness to attempt either to fight or fly, and the happy effect of the musket explosion induced him to adopt another course of action.

He drew himself up proudly to his full height, and beckoned the savages to return.