Malcolm descended the stairs until he reached the lowest loophole which lighted them, and which was a few feet above the top of the door.

He took one of the men with him.
"Here are my flask and bullet pouch," he said.

"Do you reload my pistols as I discharge them." For some minutes the sound of the faggots being thrown down continued, then the footsteps were heard retreating, and all was quiet again.
"Now it is our turn again," Malcolm said.

"It is one thing to prepare a fire and another to light it, my fine fellows.

I expect that you have forgotten that there are firearms here." Presently a light was seen in the distance, and two men with blazing brands approached.