His cries were understood,
for answering whoops were heard in the fields, and the foe without again
rallied to the attack.
"This may not be neglected," said he who, more by his self-possession and
air of authority, than by any known right to command, had insensibly
assumed so much authority in the important business of that night. "One
like this, within our walls, may quickly bring destruction on the
garrison. The postern may be opened to an inroad----"
"A triple lock secures it," interrupted Content. "The key is hid where
none know to seek it, other than such as are of our household."
"And happily the means of passing the private wicket are in my
possession," muttered the other, in an under tone. "So far, well; but the
brand! the brand! the maidens must look to the fires and lights, while
the youths make good the stockade, since this assault admitteth not of
further delay."
So saying, the stranger gave an example of courage by proceeding to his
stand at the pickets, where, supported by his companions, he continued to
defend the approaches against a discharge of arrows and bullets that was
more distant, but scarcely less dangerous to the safety of those who
showed themselves on the side of the acclivity, than those which had been
previously showered upon the garrison.
Pages:
276
277
278
279
280
281
282
283
284
285
286
287
288
289
290
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298
299
300