Then a wad was put in, and a shell with one of the knotted ropes fastened to it dropped in the top.

The rope had been coiled in a tub so as to run out easily.

The gunner applied the match.

There was a dull report, and every man held his breath to listen.

There was a thud high up on the cliff and then a splash.
"'A few feet short of the top, I should say, gunner.