We then began a tour of the platform, the colonel admonishing the semi-stupefied men, or, in some instances, appealing to their loyalty, while he personally undertook the sighting of every piece of ordnance, taking care that they were properly charged and primed.
Hardly had these preparations been completed than the steady tramp of armed men sounded through the darkness, and presently a line of lighted matches gleamed along the entire landward front of the castle. With quickening pulse I watched the approach of the assailants, wondering dimly what the end would be, as I cast about a musket, and made ready to fire.
Then came the sounds of men's voices singing in a deep bass, and I could distinguish the words of the 68th Psalm:
"Let God arise, and let his enemies be scattered."
One of our men uttered come coarse jest, but our leader sternly reproved him, and in silence we awaited the attack.
Suddenly a voice hailed us from the rebel ranks:
"Surrender to the forces of the Parliament of the Realm of England!"
"We hold no parley with rebels!" shouted Colonel Firestone. "Another step, and we open fire!"
Hardly were the words out of his mouth than a raucous voice came from a window of the keep.
"Go away, men, go away."