The Japanese and Russians came first upon the Chinese intrenched just beyond Tung-Chow; and a sharp skirmish occurred, lasting the best part of two hours. But, as soon as the Japanese tried to turn the left flank of the enemy, the Celestials fled straight for the Chinese City of Pekin, leaving the battle ground to the foreigners. A conference of officers was now held; and it was decided that Pekin should be attacked on the eastern side, first by the artillery, and then by the infantry. The Japanese and Russians were to attack north of the canal, and the Americans, English, and others south of that watercourse. The attack was to have begun on the 15th of August; but, by some misunderstanding, it started early on the day before, while the American and English troops were not yet in position. This caused the Americans a forced march of twelve miles from Tung-Chow in a heat which was fairly blistering. The attack by the Japanese and Russian artillery was terrific, lasting from three o’clock in the morning until five in the afternoon. The eastern gate of the city, north of the Tung-Chow canal, was completely demolished; and then the Russians, led by General Wasilewski, rushed through and up to the top of the great wall, where the flag of Russia was planted, speedily followed by the banner of Japan. But the fight was not yet over. It lasted far into the night, and the loss upon both sides was very heavy. In the mean time the English troops attacked the south-east gate of the Chinese City; and, not being expected there, they met with but slight resistance. Some East Indian troops led the way, breaking down the gate with battering-rams. The troops were led by Brigadier-general Sir Alfred Gaselee; and, as soon as they were inside the city, they seized the Temple of Heaven and its extensive grounds, and then pushed forward through the torn-up streets toward the legations. At three in the afternoon they reached the canal opposite the water-gate, and signalled to those within the British compound. A reply was speedily forthcoming for them to enter through the water-gate, and this they did. But during all this time our friends were not idle, and what they did will be told in the chapter to follow. CHAPTER XXIX HOW THE BESIEGED WERE RELIEVED “We are up for more fighting to-day, Pennington.” The words came from Major Morris, who had just reached Gilbert’s side. Both were tired out, yet urging the soldiers under them to move along with all possible speed. “It seems to me we are doing more walking than fighting,” answered the acting captain of Company A, with a grim smile. “A pitched battle would be something of a relief.” “It’s a pity the attack has already started,” went on the major, earnestly. “Those Japs and Russians are bound to get ahead, it seems.” “What has become of the English troops, major? I’ve missed them for the last half-hour.”