HISTORY OF MADAGASCAR. 
61 
manoeuvres, and, finding them docile and submissive, led 
them towards the enemy, and, when within sight of them, 
strictly prohibited his party from beginning the combat 
until he gave the signal for battle. 
The army of John Harre was much more numerous than 
that of Bigorne, but the position of the latter secured to 
him great advantages, of which his enemy was not able to 
judge. The first charge made by John Harre proved deci¬ 
sive. Though conducted with vigour, his forces were 
repulsed in so terrible a manner, that he was unable to 
lead them again to the combat. And thus a chief, who 
had previously been considered invincible, was vanquished 
by the mere position of a man who did not mix in the battle, 
and was even at some distance from the field. 
Being informed afterwards that Bigorne had directed the 
motions of the victorious army, John Harre replied, 66 How 
could I defend myself against the invisible spirit of a white 
man that attacked me? To be revenged, however, I am 
about to leave Foule Pointe, to retire to the Bay of An- 
tongil. My removal from that port will alarm the merchants, 
and the markets will no longer be supplied. Commerce 
will, in the mean time, be at a stand, and Bigorne’s chiefs 
will recall him to the Isle of France. My departure there¬ 
fore promises me a speedy deliverance from my most 
formidable enemy.” 
The prediction of John Harre was soon realized. His 
departure was announced with consternation, and his ab¬ 
sence put an end to all commerce. Some chiefs, friendly 
to Bigorne, did all in their power to supply the markets 
with provisions, but they were opposed by the merchants 
of Foule Pointe. The French ships, which came to take 
in provisions, after vainly endeavouring to restore peace and 
harmony amongst the people, were compelled to set sail to 
