You have killed some fifty or sixty of their soldiers.

You have repulsed them from a place which they thought to take with scarce an effort.

You have compelled them to send for reinforcements and guns.

And now you are talking of opening the gates without even obtaining a promise that your lives shall be spared.

This is the extremity of folly, and all I can say is, if you take such a step you will well deserve your fate." Malcolm's indignant address had its effect, and after a short discussion the townspeople again placed themselves at the count's disposal, and said that they would obey his orders.
"I will give no orders," the count said.