The men all worked with vigour and alacrity as soon as they understood Malcolm's plans.

Daylight was breaking when the preparations were completed.

Malcolm now divided the party, and told them off to their respective posts.

They were sixteen in all, excluding the pastor.
Eight were placed on each side of the road.

Those on one side were gathered near the pit which had been dug, those on the other were opposite to the tree which was farthest down the valley.