Since Maurice had written to them, events had progressed with fearful rapidity.
They knew now the orders which had been forwarded by signals from the citadel.

These orders had been printed and affixed to the walls.

The signals had said: "Montaignac must be regarded as in a state of siege.

The military authorities have been granted discretionary power.

A military commission will exercise jurisdiction instead of, and in place of, the courts.