possession of these, and, with such weapons as they could find, beat them
back. Numbers were of no avail here, as only a few at a time could
approach a window, while those within, being on the defensive, knocked
them back as often as they attempted to climb in. The rioters, baffled in
their attempts, would then fall back, and hurl paving-stones and bricks at
the windows, when those who defended them would step one side. But the
moment the former advanced again, the latter would crowd the windows with
clubs and sticks. The enraged assailants tore off pickets, and advancing
with these, made desperate efforts to clear the windows. But those within
knew it was a matter of life and death with them, and stubbornly held
their ground. The fight was thus kept up till dark, amid yells and shouts
and a pandemonium of noises, and no efforts apparently were made to put an
end to it, and release the inmates of the jail. But steps had been taken
to organize and arm a large body of militia under an experienced officer,
and now in the dim starlight their bayonets were seen gleaming, as they
marched steadily forward on the dark, heaving mass that filled the street
far as the eye could see. The rioters, however, instead of being
intimidated at the sight, sent up a yell of defiance, and arming
themselves with stones and brick-bats, hurled them in a blinding volley on
the troops. So fierce was the assault, that before the latter had time to
form, many were knocked down, and some badly wounded. The commanding
officer, finding the fight thus forced on him, gave the order in a ringing
voice, "Ready, aim, fire!" A flash broad as the street followed, lighting
up the gloom, and revealing the scowling faces of the mob, the battered
front of the jail, and the pale faces of those guarding the windows. They
had not expected this close, point-blank volley, for the timid action of
the authorities had not prepared them for it, and they stopped in
amazement and hesitation. The commanding officer understood his business,
and instead of waiting to see if they would disperse, poured in another
volley. The rioters were confounded as they saw their comrades fall by