he
battery was placed. This noise seemed greatly to encourage our
assailants, several of whom managed to get over the wall and engage in
hand to hand conflicts with the men under me. Nevertheless, I stirred
up my fellows to continue their resistance, and myself beat back two
Moors, one of whom I ran through the body with my bayonet. So absorbed
was I that I did not observe the approach of a young ensign from the
battery, who came running along the rope-walk, shouting out--

"Fall back! fall back! The battery is abandoned to the enemy, and they
will cut off your retreat."

At this the men with me began to slacken their exertions, and some
fairly took to their heels. However, I had just caught sight of Rupert
advancing towards me and did not feel inclined to budge.

"Come back, you fool!" shouted the little ensign, pale and breathless.
"We are beaten, don't you hear?"

I turned my head and scowled at him.

"You seem to be beaten, sir," I said. "For my part, I am very
comfortable where I am, and intend to go on fighting."

With these words I turned to defend myself from Rupert, who was coming
at me eagerly enough, as it seemed. The ensign fled without further
parley, and I believe saved his life. So also did most of my
companions, though two others were badly wounded, and unable to stir.
For my part I was resolved to sell my life dearly, but this privilege
was denied me. For Gurney, as soon as he saw how the land lay, and
that I was left there alone, instantly drew back and ordered his men
to take me a prisoner, which, being by this time about thirty or forty
against one, they effected, whether I would or not.

My cousin's exultation was very great when he thus had me for the
second time in his power.

"Now, Master Athelstane," he cried, "we shall see whether you get off
as lightly as you did at Gheriah. You are not likely, I think, to be
rescued by a fleet this time. But perhaps you will be glad that I
should take you without more ado before the Nabob. He has a high
opinion of the English, and no doubt will be glad to take you into his
service and give you many handsome rewards."

"Rupert Gurney," I answered, "in mocking at one who is your prisoner,
owing to no valour of yours, you merely show yourself to be a coward
as well as a traitor. I care nothing for what the Nabob may do to me;
and this I know, that I would rather he put me to death outright than
enjoy his favour by such services as yours."

"Thank yo