[Under Drake’s Flag by G. A. Henty]@TWC D-Link bookUnder Drake’s Flag CHAPTER 7: An Attack in Force 9/20
Let their fate be a lesson to those who may follow their example." This inscription caused great surprise among the Spaniards, who gathered round the mound and conversed earnestly upon it; looking round at the deep and silent woods, which might, for ought they knew, contain foes who had proved themselves formidable.
It was evident that the soldiers, brave as they were, yet felt misgivings as to the task upon which they had entered.
They knew that two Englishmen, a portion of the body which, under Drake, had rendered themselves so feared, were leaders of these men; and so great was the respect in which the English were at that time held, that this, alone, vastly added to the difficulties and dangers which the Spaniards saw awaiting them. However, after a few minutes' consultation the party moved forward. It was now formed in two bodies, about equally strong; one going a quarter of a mile ahead, the other following it. "What have these men divided their forces for ?" the negro asked Ned. "It seems to me," he answered, "that they hope we shall fall upon the first body, thinking that there are no more behind; and that the others, coming up in the midst of the fight, will take us by surprise.
However, we will let them march. "Send word, to the company which lies somewhat in the line which they have taken, of their approach; and let them at once retire. Tell them to make circuits in the hills, but to leave behind them sufficient traces for the Spaniards to follow.
This will encourage them to keep on, and by nightfall they will be thoroughly tired out. "Whenever they get in valleys, or other places where advantage may be taken of them, two of the companies shall accompany them, at a good distance on their flanks; and pour in volleys of arrows, or roll stones down upon them.
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