"And what means this gathering at the door of a peaceful citizen ?" As if his voice had been the signal for which they waited, a roar went up from the immense crowd.

A thunder of axes at the door and shutters, and a great shout arose, "Death to the traitor! Death to the Frenchmen!" Shots were fired at the windows, and at the same moment the alarm bell at the top of the house pealed loudly out, one of the serving men having previously received order to sound the signal if needed.
In answer to the alarm bell, the watchman on the tower, whose duty it was to call the citizens from their beds in case of fire, struck the great bell, and its deep sounds rang out over the town.

Two minutes later the church bells joined in the clamour; and the bell on the town hall with quick, sharp strokes called the burgher guard to arms.
Van Duyk, knowing now that all that could be done had been effected, ran to his daughter's room, bade her dress, and keep her door locked until she heard his voice, come what may.

Then he ran downstairs to join the defenders below.
"The shutters are giving everywhere," Rupert cried.

"We must hold this broad staircase.