Certainly, so far, they have shown themselves contemptible in attack; and have never made a successful stand, even for a minute, when we once entered their stockades, though they defend them pluckily enough until we have once got a footing inside.
"Still, these fellows ought to fight well tonight for, if they are beaten, it will be a death blow to their reputation among their countrymen.

Besides, many of them do believe in the power they claim and, as we have found before now, in India, fanatics are always formidable." After taking a look round with the colonel, the general accompanied him to his quarters; while the two aides-de-camp remained on the terrace, chatting with the officers; and then, after a time, went with some of them to the mess tent, where they sat smoking and talking until midnight, when all went out.
The troops were formed up under arms, and all listened impatiently for something that would show that the long-delayed assault would take place that night.

At half-past twelve there was the sound of a shot, which sent an electrical thrill through the troops.

It was followed almost immediately by others.

The troops were at once marched forward to the edge of the platform.