It was plain enough to see: from the window, whence the scaling-ladders were thrown down, men come dropping forth sword in hand, Cavaliers evidently, to be encountered by those of the Puritan party still without. Then out came other Puritans, to take the Cavaliers in the rear, as they fought together in a knot facing all round, with their swords flashing as they made their gallant defence.
Then a rush seemed to take place, and they were overpowered, while the smoke came slowly rolling out from the open window, though the firing had ceased.
The fighting still went on within for a few minutes; then a rush as made out from door and window, and a tremendous cheer arose, loud enough to strike well upon the spectators’ ears, helmets were seen flashing, swords flourished in the air, and it was plain enough that resistance had ceased, while the attacking force were gathering together once again.
“Smoke seems long while rolling out, Master Fred; must ha’ been a deal o’ firing we did not hear.”
“Oh!” shouted Fred, as like a flash the truth came home to him.
“What’s the matter, lad? Are you hurt?” cried Samson.
“No, no; look! The dear old Hall!” cried Fred. “Don’t you see?”
“Smoke, sir? Yes.”
“No, no, my good fellow, not smoke alone; the poor old place is on fire.”
And without another word, Fred, followed closely by Samson, dashed down the hill.