The volleys came thick and fast; the woodwork, strong as it was, began to be penetrated by the bullets.
It was clear the place would soon be untenable.
Should the besiegers enter, all hope of escape would be over.
"At least, we'll return their fire," said Jack.
The windows in the wall facing the street were mere loopholes.
At each of these, Jack commanded one of his men to take his stand, and pick off the enemy with the rifle.
It was a dangerous game, but it served its purpose.
Several of the besiegers fell before the well-aimed shots of the besieged.
The Turks began to think that they were being opposed by a considerable force of well armed men.
Their own shots failed to reach the highly-placed and narrow windows, which were now so many portholes for the fire of the besieged.