His subjects, however, were no longer entirely under his control; and, though he managed to enforce some little attention to his commands, it was evident his authority was waning fast.
Aware that they would not be allowed to remain long unmolested, the New Minters conducted themselves so outrageously, and with such extraordinary insolence, that measures were at this time being taken for their effectual suppression.
To the Seven Cities of Refuge Jack proceeded.

Having disposed of his steed and swallowed a glass of brandy, without taking any other refreshment, he threw himself on a couch, where he sank at once into a heavy slumber.

When he awoke it was late in the day, and he was surprised to find Blueskin seated by his bed-side, watching over him with a drawn sword on his knee, a pistol in each hand, and a blood-stained cloth bound across his brow.
"Don't disturb yourself," said his follower, motioning him to keep still; "it's all right." "What time is it ?" inquired Jack.
"Past noon," replied Blueskin.

"I didn't awake you, because you seemed tired." "How did you escape ?" asked Sheppard, who, as he shook off his slumber, began to recall the events of the previous night.
"Oh, easily enough," rejoined the other.

"I suppose I must have been senseless for some time; for, on coming to myself, I found this gash in my head, and the ground covered with blood.