The express came softly to the door and by a gentle tapping raised the family.

This was easily done, as an habitual fear made us ever watchful, and sensible to the slightest alarm.

The whole family were instantly in motion.
"My father seized his gun and other implements of war.

My mother waked up and dressed the children as well as she could.

Being myself the oldest of the children, I had to take my share of the burdens to be carried to the fort.