"De sogers! de sogers!"
"Where?" said Pomp, instinctively springing to his rifle.
"In de sink! Dey fire onto we and de young lady!"
"Any one hurt?"
"No. Massa Hapgood cotch de bullets in him's hat!" for this was the impression the negro had brought away with him. "Hull passel sogers! Sile Ropes,—seed him fust ob all!"
It was some moments before the patriots fully comprehended this alarming intelligence. But Pomp understood it instantly.
"Gentlemen, will you fight? Your side of the house is attacked!"
There was a moment's confusion. Then those who had not already taken their guns, sprang to them. They had brought lanterns, which were now burning. They plunged into the gallery, following Pomp. Cudjo ran for his sword, drew it from the scabbard, and ran yelling after them.
The sudden tumult died in the depths of the cavern; and all was still again before those left behind had recovered from their astonishment.
There was one whose astonishment was largely mixed with joy. A moment since he was lying like a man near the last gasp; but now he started up, singularly forgetful of his dying condition, until reminded of it by feeling the restraint of the rope and seeing Toby. Lysander sank back with a groan.