The same reasons which had induced the Earl of Northampton to decide upon a speedy assault instead of the slow process of breaching the walls, actuated the French in pursuing the same course, and, divided into a number of storming parties, the army advanced at once to the assault on the walls.

The little garrison prepared for the defence.
"The outlook is bad, Walter," Sir John Powis said.

"These men approach with an air of resolution which shows that they are bent upon success.
They outnumber us by twelve to one, and it is likely enough that the citizens may rise and attack us in the rear.

They have been ordered to bring the stones for the machines to the walls, but no one has laid his hand to the work.

We must do our duty as brave men, my lad, but I doubt me if yonder is not the last sun which we shall see.