26 SAN JOSEF. 



self insulted ; and his deep metallic voice sounded in anger 

 above that of the provost-marshal,^ as the latter gave the 

 words 'Eeady! present!' But at this instant his vociferous 

 daring forsook him. As the men levelled their muskets at 

 him, with inconceivable rapidity he sprang bodily round, still 

 preserving his squatting posture, and received the fire from 

 behind ; while the less noisy, but more brave, Ogston, looked 

 the firing-party full in the face as they discharged their fatal 

 volley. 



" In one instant all three fell dead, almost all the balls of 

 the firing-party having taken effect. The savage appearance 

 and manner of Daaga excited awe. Admiration was felt for 

 the calm bravery of Ogston, while Edward Coftin's fate 

 excited commiseration. 



" There were many spectators of this dreadful scene, and 

 amongst others a great concourse of Xegros. Most of these 

 expressed their hopes that after this terrible example the 

 recruits w^ould make good soldiers." 



Ah, stupid savages. Yes : but also ah, stupid civilized 

 people. 



^ One of his countrymen exj^lained to mo wbat Daaga said on this occasion, 

 viz. "The curse of Holloloo on white men. Do they think that Daaga 

 fears to fix his eyeballs on death ? " 



