o defend ourselves, and then to be
slowly tortured to death."

As soon as it was dusk a sentry was placed on the top of the tower, with
orders to report the slightest sound or stir. During the day this had
not been necessary, for a view could be obtained from the windows, and
the men with firearms, who had now considerably increased in numbers,
kept up a constant fire at the tower.

An hour later the sentry reported that he could hear the sound of many
feet in the darkness, with the occasional snapping as of dry twigs.

"They are going to burn down the door," Malcolm said. "That is what I
expected. Now, sergeant, is your time. They are all busy and intent upon
their purpose. You could not have a better time."

The rope was fastened round the sergeant's waist, and with some
difficulty he squeezed himself through the narrow window, after
listening attentively to discover if any were below.

All seemed perfectly still on this side, and he was gradually and
steadily lowered down. Presently those above felt the rope slack.
Another minute and it swung loosely. It was drawn up again, and Malcolm,
placing one of the men at the loophole, with instructions to listen
intently for any sound of alarm or conflict, turned his attention to the
other side.

Soon he saw a number of dark figures bearing on their heads great
bundles which he knew to be faggots approaching across the snow.

As they approached a brisk fire suddenly opened on the tower. Malcolm at
once called the sentry down.

"It is of no use exposing yourself," he said, "and we could not do much
harm to them did we take to stoning them again. We have nothing to do
now but to wait."

Soon a series of dull heavy crashes were heard as the faggots were
thrown down against the door. Malcolm descended the stairs until he
reached the lowest loophole which lighted them, and which was a few feet
above the top of the door. He took one of the men with him.

"Here are my flask and bullet pouch," he said. "Do you reload my pistols
as I discharge them."

For some minutes the sound of the faggots being thrown down continued,
then the footsteps were heard retreating, and all was quiet again.

"Now it is our turn again," Malcolm said. "It is one thing to prepare
a fire and another to light it, my fine fellows. I expect that you have
forgotten that there are firearms here."

Presently a light was seen in the distance, and two men with blazing
brands approached. They advanced