“Do you feel that you can guide us all without lights?”
“Oh, yes; I have been so long in the dark, and have often come with my father to fill the pitcher in that pool below.”
“Rugg, you and your boy stay back, and keep the lights hidden,” said Sir Edward firmly.
“Oh!” cried the old miner, in a tone full of protest; and then hastily: “Right, Sir Edward.”
“And be ready to bring the lanterns, and come to our help when called.”
Dan Rugg growled his assent, but Dummy murmured angrily.
“Join yourselves together, my lads,” whispered Sir Edward, “by carrying your pikes each with the head upon the shoulder of the man before him—the man behind me to rest his in the same way as I lead. Ready?”
“Ay!” came in a low growl from out of the darkness.
“One word more,” said Sir Edward sternly, and his words sent a thrill through Mark. “If the enemy surrenders, show mercy now: if he does not, remember not a man must escape.”
A low deep murmur, full of hatred against the destroyers of their homes, came from the miners, and then in the renewed silence Sir Edward said sharply: