Portions of land, too, were turned up; and yams and other fruits, on a larger scale than had hitherto been attempted, were planted.

A good supply of goats was obtained, huts were erected, and the lads determined that, at least as long as the Spaniards allowed it, their lives should be made as comfortable as possible.
Fugitive slaves from time to time joined the party; but Ned strongly discouraged any increase, at present, from this cause.

He was sure that, were the Spaniards to find that their runaways were sheltered there, and that a general desertion of their slaves might take place; they would be obliged, in self defense, to root out this formidable organization in their midst.

Therefore, emissaries were sent out among the negroes, stating that none would be received, in the mountains, save those who had previously asked permission; this being only accorded in cases where such extreme brutality and cruelty had been exercised, by the masters, as would wholly justify the flight of the slave.
For some months, a sort of truce was maintained between the Spaniards and this little army in the woods.

The blacks observed the promises, which Ned had made, with great fidelity.