But a band of fifty is too large to be long concealed.

To begin with, they must get food, and must either buy it or hunt for it; and in the second, there are a considerable number of men living in the forest, charcoal burners and herders of goats and swine, and any of these, if questioned by the troops, might mention that they had seen a considerable number of men passing.

As it is, we will break up into parties of seven or eight, and appoint a rendezvous where we may meet again." The band was speedily mustered, for, with the exception of those who were watching the forest through which the troops at the hut must march to reach them, the whole were close at hand.

A messenger was sent off to call in the scouts.

Then the booty that had been taken during their late excursions was brought out, and emptied on the ground.