This was far too desperate an enterprise to be attempted, for the keep rose eighty feet above the courtyard.

It was upon the door, solid and studded with iron, that the attempt had to be made.
Several efforts were made by Sir Rudolph, who fought with a bravery worthy of a better cause, to assault and batter down the door.

Protected by wooden shields from the rain of missiles from above, he and his knights hacked at the door with their battle-axes.

But in vain.

It had been strengthened by beams behind, and by stones piled up against it.
Then fire was tried.