n a curved line, the men at a short distance
from each other, so that as they all made for the mouth of the cave they
would gradually draw together, and be close when they delivered the
attack.

"Pikes only," said Sir Edward. "Keep your swords for the close
hand-to-hand work."

"Has your father been a soldier, youngster?" whispered Nick Garth
hoarsely.

"No; why?"

"Talks like one. He couldn't do better. He'll give the word soon, and
the sooner the better. I've got my wind now. 'Member the master and
the young missus, lads."

There was a growl from his companions, and as Mark glanced at them he
felt that it would go hard with any one among the enemy who came within
reach of their pikes.

The enemy had, however, now descended from the top of their wall, and
only their heads and breasts were visible, as, ten strong now, they
stood in a row, with their pikes resting upon the top; ready to thrust
at the first who came within reach.

"Now, my lads," cried Sir Edward; "have you all got your wind?"

"Ay!" ran along the crescent line.

"You with the powder, and the two centre men stand fast till you are
wanted."

This order was obeyed as the next was given, and headed by Sir Edward
and his son, the party made steadily for the wall, at first slowly and
gradually increasing the pace, till Sir Edward cried, "Charge!" and they
broke into a trot, the fastest speed to be attained to upon such a
slope.

Then, amidst shouts of hatred and mocking defiance from the marauders,
there was the clash of steel, and the heavy rattling noise made by the
pike-staves, as, thrusting and stabbing, the attacking party strove to
win their way over the wall. Sir Edward led his men bravely, while, in
a wild fit of excitement, Mark, young as he was, strove to show the
Darley men that he was worthy to be their leader.

A fierce rage filled these men, fresh from the ruined home, and half mad
with desire to revenge themselves upon those who had given them their
wounds; but all along it was the same; they were at a terrible
disadvantage in their approach, their enemies having their undefended
bodies as marks for their weapons, while they had only head and
shoulders to strike at, the rest of their bodies being safe, behind the
strong breastwork.

Then, too, feeling secure in this approach to their stronghold, the
marauders stood firm, waiting their opportunities, and then thrusting
home, with the result that several of their assailant