CHAPTER XXIII

THE FIGHT IN THE CONVENT





"Halt! Who goes there!"

A shot rang out in the stillness of the night; it was answered at
once by another closer in. More shots followed, gradually increasing
to a fusillade as the scouts and pickets came running back. Men
sprang up from the ground, but even as they did so another volley
reached them, and three men dropped with a groan and lay still.
The alarm sounded clear from the bugle and echoed back from the
surrounding hills. A sharp command came from the throat of the
sergeant; the company seized the stacked rifles. Captain Groce
gave another order; the formation to repel attack was made in an
incredibly short space of time. There was no disorder; no confusion.
The little officer was as cool as if on dress parade.

"Steady, men! Wait until they're nearer!" They had not long to
wait. From all sides a horde of shouting, firing men were rushing
on the little square. "Steady, men!" was still his only command.