A shot was fired from without.
It did no damage.
This was the signal for hostilities to commence.
“Out, boys, and at ’em!” cried Jack.
The Arabs rushed out at the word of command.
They poured a volley into the pirates, half of whom fell to the ground.
This was a reception they had not expected.
In a half-hearted manner they returned the fusillade.
Several of the defenders were injured.
“Fall on them with the sword,” said Jack, “hand to hand!”