The noise soon became deafening, the enemy's heavy guns being answered by the few small ones that the British had been able to get into position during the night. There was no doubt that, until the heavy naval batteries were got into position, it would go hard with the defending forces.
Helmar hurried along in face of the terrific fire, totally heedless of the danger he was running, until he reached the railway.
Hurrying on with the greatest possible speed, he reached the base of the hill, where he stood watching the efforts of the men. It was frightful work, the great heavy guns moved ever so slowly, and to George the outlook seemed hopeless.
He had not noticed the officer in charge standing close by him, but as a sergeant ran up to receive some order his attention was attracted, and he recognized a Captain of Engineers to whom he had been of use several times since his arrival in Alexandria.
The officer looked very much concerned about something as he stood there directing the sergeant. At the very moment the man went off to do the bidding of his superior, the officer turned and caught sight of George standing there. Beckoning him to his side, he asked—
"Is not your name Helmar?"
"Yes, sir," replied George.
"What are you doing now?" demanded the officer.
"I have just finished the trenches, sir; my men have gone back and I was about to follow, when I stopped to watch the hauling up of those guns," said George.
"Ah! Those guns are giving much trouble. But I have just hit upon an idea which will save time and labour, and you are the very man I want to help carry it out. Come with me for a few minutes and I will give you the necessary instructions."