Vernon had procured the services of fourteen men, chicken-thieves, and
others of desperate fortunes, to engage in the enterprise, by holding
out to them the hope of plunder, of which the cottage, he assured them,
would afford an abundant harvest. The real purpose of the expedition
was, therefore, unknown to any of the party, except the leaders. The
prospect of a sharp fight had not in the least dampened the ardor of
their hopes. With men of their craft it was a dull season, and the
prospect of "cracking a crib" plentifully stored with valuables was
quite a pleasant anticipation.
It was arranged that Maxwell, with the larger portion of the
desperadoes, should land at the lower part of the island, and, if any
defenders appeared, commence hostilities, and draw them away from the
house, while Vernon, with the most experienced of the "cracks-men,"
should assault the house, and effect the purpose of the enterprise. In
the person of one of the chicken-thieves a pilot for the creek was
discovered; and, to make assurance doubly sure, it was decided that
Vernon should approach the cottage by the usual channel.
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