The fact was, of course, made patent by the English commander-in-chief, in his repeated attempts to secure McKay's release and exchange. But the prisoner had been told nothing of these efforts, or of the peremptory refusal that had met Lord Raglan's demands.
"I told you it would be no use," interrupted a third. "He is as obstinate as a mule."
"Stay! what is that?" cried Todleben, suddenly. "Over there, in the direction of the Green Mamelon."
Three rockets were seen to shoot up into the evening sky.
"It is some signal," said another. "Yes; heavy columns are beginning to climb the slopes away there to our left."
"And the British troops are collecting in front of the Quarries."
At this moment the besiegers' fire, which had slackened perceptibly, was re-opened with redoubled strength.
"Let everyone return to his station without delay," said Todleben, briefly. "A serious crisis is at hand. The attack points to the Malakoff, which, as you all know, is the key of our position."
"Hush!" said one of the other generals, pointing to McKay.
"What matter?" replied Todleben. "He can hardly hope to pass on the intelligence."