Several times, Dick went to one or other
of the loopholes, pistol in hand, and, standing close beside it,
waited until a shot was fired; and then, thrusting the barrel into the
loophole, fired before another gun could be inserted, the discharge
being generally followed by a sharp cry of pain.
After this had gone on for nearly an hour, the assailants evidently
became discouraged. The shots came from the loopholes less frequently,
and presently ceased altogether.
"I would give a good deal to know what they are up to," Dick said,
after a long pause.
"Shall I look through the loophole?" Surajah asked.
"Certainly not. There will be a man standing at each of them, waiting
in expectation of our taking a look out."
"But there are none in front," Surajah said.
"That is more than we can say. They have not been firing on that side,
but they may have men there now. No, we will leave well alone,
Surajah. The longer they delay, the better for us.
"Keep your eye on the top of the wall, as well as on the window. They
may have made some ladders by this time, and may intend to try a
shot."
"Perhaps they are gone?" Surajah suggested.
"It is quite possible. They must know that our troop comes up here
early, and as they have four miles to walk back to the fort, and
several wounded to carry with them, they certainly won't stay much
longer--if, as you say, they have not gone already.
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