“Depress the muzzle, man!” cried Roy.
“I did, sir, more than usual,” said the corporal, rather sulkily.
“Yes, sir,” said Ben; “he’s a better gunner than me. Mine was on’y a bit o’ luck, for I raised mine this time.”
While the guns were being reloaded, Roy and his lieutenant watched the proceedings in the battery, waiting to withdraw when the enemy seemed to be about to fire.
But no further shot was sent roaring and whizzing against the tower, and, night falling, it soon became impossible to see what was going on.
Chapter Twenty Seven.
A Startling Portent.
That same night the proceedings at the earthwork were repeated under cover of a strong guard, the greater portion of the little garrison being engaged in repairing and strengthening the great earthen bank from the inner side; and this was carried out till dawn without the slightest interruption.