Retreat was impossible, for behind them was the burning house.

Suddenly a stream of fire burst from the semicircle of troops.

Some thirty of the insurgents fell, the others threw down their arms and fell upon their knees crying for mercy.

The troops were rushing forward to finish their work, when Hector shouted "Halt!" "De Mieville," he said, as the officer rode up towards the tower, "do not shed more blood.

Thirty at least have fallen in their attack on this turret, besides those who have been killed by your fire.