Phra was right, for their proceedings had been watched from the top of the palace by means of a glass, and hence as soon as the gate had been seen to be secure the signal was fired to call them back.
They were met by Mr. Kenyon, glass in hand, as they ran up.
"I was watching you from the top there," he said.
"Didn't you see the spears as the men came along the ditch?" asked
Phra.
"No, or I should have sent help at once. Of course I could not detect the men coming up under shelter of the wall. Well, we have done two good things to-day: got rid of those devourers of our stores, and found out that the enemy are hiding about the country beyond the walls."
"Think they are on this side too, father?" asked Harry.
"I feel sure they are, my boy. They lie all along a loop whose two ends rest on the river's bank, while their boats guard the terrace and landing-place as well. This means fresh attacks as soon as they have recovered from the check they have just received."
"But why don't they attack us from some other side—come over the walls?" said Harry.
"It does not seem to be their way. Yonder is the main way into the palace, and they commenced by attacking there; but perhaps they will try fresh plans now. I am, with the King's permission, going to strengthen one weak part, though, before night comes."
"Which is that?" asked Phra.