The king had, when Mr.
Goodenough first suggested these defenses, pointed out that much less earth would be required were it piled directly against the gates.
Mr.Goodenough replied, that certainly this was so, but that it was essential to be able to open the gates to make a sortie if necessary against the enemy, and although the king shook his head, as if doubting the ability of his people to take such a desperate step as that of attacking the enemy outside their walls, he yielded to Mr.Goodenough's opinion..