Both gateways were furnished with means of defence, the outer having an iron grille of heavy crossed bars, while the second had folding doors of massive oak, with a wicket for ordinary use in the lower part of one of the folds.

But in spite of the enmity between the two families, little heed had of late been given to the defences.

Sir Edward had considered that the outer gate at the end of the natural bridge was sufficient, as there was so little likelihood of an attack without warning; and, as far as Mark could make out, it seemed that under cover of the darkness the enemy had crossed the bridge and forced the gate under the little towers, when the rest would be easy for them.

They had only had to pass through the first courtyard, and were now in the lesser or inner court, evidently trying to batter down the entrance door into the hall.
They must have begun their work before Sir Edward and his people were alarmed; but how long before it was impossible to tell.

What met the eyes of the two lads now was an armed group trying to batter in the great door by means of a beam they had brought up into the yard, while others, armed with pikes, guarded their companions, upon whom missiles of all kinds were being dashed down from above, and thrusts were being made with other pikes from the windows which flanked or overhung the door.
"The Darleys," whispered Dummy, as they peered together round the inner corner of the gateway dividing the two courts.
"In with it, boys!" roared a hoarse voice; and they dimly made out a heavy figure standing in the shelter of the wall.
"Captain Purlrose and his gang," whispered back Mark huskily.