In the small ill-kept square the invaders, to the number of about a hundred, were wedged together at its upper end, while the Thrums people formed in a thick line at the foot.

For its inhabitants the way to Tilliedrum lay through this threatening mass of armed weavers.

No words were bandied between the two forces; the centre of the square was left open, and nearly every eye was fixed on the town-house clock.

It directed operations and gave the signal to charge.

The moment six o'clock struck, the upper mass broke its bonds and flung itself on the living barricade.