We will divide ourselves between the two parties." The major now impressed upon his men the necessity for absolute quiet, and for marching as lightly and silently as possible.

The English officers gave similar instructions to their men.

It was arranged that, when the door was opened, the two parties should issue out simultaneously, two abreast; so that if the alarm was given before all were out, they would be able to turn right and left, and attack in both directions at once.

A French lieutenant was appointed to remain in the church, and command the little garrison of wounded men.
Those who sallied out were to stoop low as they went, and were to keep a few paces apart.

Some hangings in the church were pulled down and torn up into strips, with which the men were directed to muffle their boots.
There was no mistaking the ardour with which the soldiers prepared for the sortie.