It is a more serious affair than usual.

I shall take it upon myself to wake the marshal." He went to Keith's door, knocked, and opened it.
"Who is there?
What is it ?" the marshal asked.
"It is I, Drummond, sir.

There is heavy firing going on to the right, much heavier than it has been any other night." "What o'clock is it ?" "About ten minutes past five, sir.

There is a thick mist, and it is pitch dark.

Shall I go over and inquire what is going on ?" "Yes, do.