Under the direction of De Noyan, the scattered bowlders were rolled up the steep and piled in a solid wall, reaching nearly waist high, completely circling the open front of the cave, its centre somewhat advanced from the stone slab, with either flank resting solidly against the face of the cliff.
It did me good to listen while De Noyan issued energetic orders, swearing at us ardently in army French as if we were of his own squadron of chasseurs.
It required the greater part of an hour to get our rude rock rampart in such condition as to satisfy the military taste of the Chevalier even measurably, and during that time we toiled as men must when their lives are soon to depend upon the result of their labor.
"_Saprista_!" he commented at last, wiping his streaming brow, and gazing about him critically.

"It will answer fairly well, I think, although another row might strengthen the curves.

Still, 'tis not likely we shall be called upon to battle against gun or pike, and if too high the stones might interfere with proper thrust of the sword.
So let us lunch.

Egad! the sight of that hungry preacher haunts me every time I turn around; besides, whatever resting-spell we get ere the ball opens will serve to steady our nerves for the onset.

Have you spread forth a rare feast for our comrades, Eloise ?" She stood within the shadow, leaning lightly against the great stone, smiling at us.
"All I have awaits your pleasure, gentlemen," she returned bravely, "and I trust you may consider it a pleasant duty to do full justice to my skill." It has lingered a unique memory of those days, the outward carelessness with which we chattered away during that strange meal.