An attempt of Hildebad to enter the camp without more ado was frustrated by the strong oaken palisades, which defied the spears and stones hurled at them.
Leaning on his sword, Hildebad cooled himself for a moment. Just then Teja, who, like the King and Totila, had long since dismounted, turned the corner of the wall, which he had been examining and measuring.
"This confounded wooden fortress!" cried Hildebad, as Teja came up. "Neither stone nor iron can do any good here."
"No," said Teja; "but fire can!"
He stirred with his foot a heap of ashes which lay near.
"These are from last night's watch-fires. Here are still some sparks, and brushwood lies near. Come, my men, put up your swords and kindle the brushwood. Set the camp on fire!"
"Splendid fellow!" cried Hildebad rejoicingly. "Quick, lads! burn them out as you would a fox in his hole! The brisk north wind will help us!"
The dying watch-fires were speedily fanned into flame; hundreds of fire-brands flew into the dry planks of the palisading.
Very soon bright flames rose to the sky.
The thick smoke, driven into the camp by the wind, blinded the Byzantines, and rendered the defence of the walls impossible. They retreated to the centre of the camp.