“They pitched in mighty strong at first, sir,” he answered civilly. “An' we had so few men they pretty nearly rushed us, fer sure. It was our repeatin' rifles thet drove 'em back.” “You suffered to some extent?” “Two killed, sir, and three or four wounded. It wus hot 'nough fer a while, I tell you; as lively a little jig as I've ever bin in. McNeal, there, got a lump of lead in his arm. Would you mind explainin' 'bout you fellows comin' in here to help us, sir? It seems kinder odd to be fightin' longside of gray-backs.” I told him briefly the circumstances, and his eyes danced merrily at the recital. “Be a rum story to tell if ever we get out of here, sir,” he commented, patting his gun. “I've mostly seen you fellows from the t'other side, but, dern it all, this is more the way it ought to be.” I agreed with him thoroughly as to that, and we relapsed into silence, each intent upon the uncertainty without. As I lay there, gazing anxiously into the darkness, I could not forbear wondering where Brennan had concealed the women to keep them from harm. Would he inform them of our arrival? He could scarcely hope to keep the fact long hidden, for they would certainly see some of my gray-jackets, and ask questions. I doubted, however, if he would mention my name, yet Caton surely would, and Caton could not be kept long away from Miss Minor, unless serious attack was imminent. Unquestionably, I should be compelled to meet them before this duty was concluded; how should I be received, and how should I conduct myself? There was but one way--a dignified courtesy, seemingly ignoring all that had previously occurred. Any explanation at present was apparently out of the question, and I certainly could not venture to intrude after the coldness of my last reception. Besides, there was Brennan to be considered. He would make use of my services in this emergency, but I had been distinctly informed it could make no difference in the feud existing between us. I had no wish that it should, and I could consistently hope for very little consideration from the wife of a man whom I was destined to meet upon the field of honor. No, the far better way was to see as little of her as possible, to meet almost as strangers, and then to part for ever. Difficult as this programme assuredly was, it seemed the only honorable course left me. Even had she loved me as truly as I did her, I could yet do no less. “They seem to be peckin' away pretty lively out in front,” said the corporal, interrupting my reverie. “Yes,” I admitted. “In my judgment that will prove the main point of attack. How many men did the Major have there before we came?” “Same as here, sir.” “And four of mine; that makes seven altogether, counting himself, and two of these ought to be posted in the upper story. He's bound to need more; that firing is very steady.” “He's got the women loadin' for him, and that helps some.”