Above, the fire of the defenders had broken out afresh, but the Germans rushed forward in spite of it. Bullets hummed close about Hal's head as he stood beside the doorway, but none struck him; and at last all the men were inside.
Hal went in after them.
From without came a cry of rage as the advancing Germans realized that, for the moment, at least, they had been deprived of their prey.
"Guard the door there, men!" shouted Hal. "Get back and to one side out of the line of fire. Save your bullets until they cross the threshold, then shoot them down."
The men moved into position. Hal glanced quickly around to make sure that all was in readiness and at that moment Captain Leroux descended the stairs.
"Good work, Mr. Paine," he said quietly. "If I live, I shall report this piece of work. I will take command here now. Return to your post above."
Hal saluted and did as commanded.
Hardly had he reached position above when he heard Captain Leroux below give the command:
"Fire!"