"I fear there is no hope of that," said the aide-de-camp, gloomily.
"Have we failed, then?" asked McKay.
His friend shook his head.
"Completely. I cannot tell why exactly, but I know that part of the French started prematurely. There was some mistake about the signal-rocket. This gave the alarm to the whole garrison."
"Yes; I heard them turning out in the middle of the night."
"And the consequence was they were ready for us at all points. Our attacking parties at the Redan were met with a tremendous fire, and literally mowed down. Our losses have been frightful. All the generals—Sir John Campbell, Lacy, yea, and Shadford—are killed, and ever so many more. It's quite heartbreaking."
"And will nothing more be tried to-day?"
"I fear not, although Lord Raglan is quite ready; but the French are very dispirited. Goodness knows how it will end! The only slice of luck is Eyre's getting in here; but I doubt if he can remain."
"Why not?"
"The enemy's fire is too galling, and it appears to be on the increase."