They were his very good friends and allies.
"Well, it is not like me.

I can say that I am not often," with a keen look at Baudichon, "caught napping! And now, M.Fabri," he continued with his usual practical air, "I have delayed the business long enough.
What is it?
And what is that ?" He pointed to the letter in the First Syndic's hands.
"Well, it is really your affair in the main," Fabri answered, "since as Fourth Syndic you are responsible for the guard and the city's safety; and ours afterwards.

It is a warning," he continued, his eyes reverting to the page before him, "from our secret agent in Turin, whose name I need not mention"-- Blondel nodded--"informing us of a fresh attempt to be made on the city before Christmas; by means of rafts formed of hurdles and capable of transporting whole companies of soldiers.

These he has seen tried in the River Po, and they performed the work.

Having reached the walls by their means the assailants are to mount by ladders which are being made to fit into one another.