"But with a wall still," said Tom dryly. "They could come in here then, and knock the wall down just the same. We should have them pouring in through the church door and through this other opening. Still, there's a lot in the suggestion. Tell me, can you see anyone elsewhere than in and around the village?" They had mounted to the top of the house, and could obtain a clear view. Both stared out in all directions, and kept silent for a few minutes. "Heaps at the village, sir," reported Andrews after a while. "A few here and there, watching the surroundings. No big body of them anywheres as I can see." "Nor I; let's get below." As if bent on a purpose, Tom led the way to the yard, and then dived into the stable. There were the two nags they had seen when first they established themselves in the place, contentedly munching at the hay with which a thoughtful trooper had provided them. Tom pulled a door open and entered the cart shed. "Good!" he exclaimed. "Two of them--light carts too. Call Howeley and his men." The riflemen came plunging down at once, and stood at attention. "Get the carts out and the horses harnessed in," Tom ordered. "When that's done, load one of the carts with food. We shan't want water or wine, though you can take a small cask of the latter. Don't overload. Now you, my friend," he went on, addressing one of the troopers, "hurry to the rooms above, and bring down a mattress and some blankets. Quick with it!" "You're going to--beg pardon, sir," began Andrews, using his accustomed formula. "You ain't going to take French leave of them beauties! Never!" His smile told of his delight, and of his agreement with the order. "Take my compliments to Mr. Riley and your own officer, and help them both to descend," said Tom. "When they are safely in the cart on the mattress I have ordered, and armed, Andrews----" "Yes, sir." "And armed with carbines, you get to the top of the building and look about you carefully. If all's clear, let me know. Then slip down to join us. Now, I'll collect the other men." Very silently and swiftly did the troopers obey his orders. At an earlier date they might very well have demurred and hesitated, delaying, perhaps, to discuss the matter; for why should they give obedience to one who was, nominally at least, their prisoner? But Tom had won their confidence, and that is a great thing where troops are concerned. They merely looked their surprise when ordered to repair to the yard and mount their horses, while the man posted over the church door bared his sabre, as if determined that no fault of his should allow a slinking peasant to mount secretly and discover the movement of the garrison. "Wait till I call you," whispered Tom. "Then run down to the yard and mount your horse. You understand?" The fellow grinned at him, a grin of interest and friendship.