He fired again, but evidently without effect, and a minute later a light at one side of the patio told him that the enemy, or a part of them at least, were inside the gate.
As the light flared up Donald fired again, but again without avail; but a moment later the cannon on the roof spoke.
"So," he thought, "Billie and Mr. Black are at last awake."
At the report of the cannon the light went out and there was the rush of scurrying feet, followed by a shout.
The shout indicated that those within the patio had withdrawn to the other side of the gate.
Feeling sure that the patio was now free of the enemy for a time at least, Donald retreated in the dark to the house and was soon inside. At the first landing he encountered Josie, sitting on a step with a ready revolver. He was able to see her by the dim light of an oil lamp which hung from the ceiling.
"Where are the others?" he asked.
"On the roof. They are trying to locate the enemy."
Donald ascended to the roof.
"I have a plan," he said, "which will enable us to get in another shot. Load with shrapnel and I will see if I can't make some sort of a light outside the gate. Be ready on the instant."